Key Loss: What Tenants in Germany Need 2025
As a tenant in Germany, a lost key is more than an annoyance: it can cause costs for lock replacement, changing locking systems or claims from your landlord. This text explains in clear language which insurances and legal sections are relevant, how you should react immediately and which official forms or courts may be involved. The information helps you limit damage, meet deadlines and submit evidence correctly so claims can be assessed. Read the practical steps and suggested actions so you as a tenant in Germany are prepared in case of a key loss in 2025.
What do insurances cover in case of key loss?
Different insurances may apply. Personal liability insurance often covers third-party claims if your lost key causes damage to someone else's property. Household insurance usually protects movable items inside your home, not external locks. Whether costs for lock replacement or locking systems are reimbursed depends on the policy. Check your contract, coverage limits and exclusions and notify your insurer immediately after discovering the loss.
Important legal bases
Tenancy obligations and claims are set out in the BGB (§§ 535–580a).[1] Civil procedural steps like lawsuits or enforcement follow the ZPO.[2] In disputes over claims the local court (Amtsgericht) has jurisdiction; appeals go to the Landgericht and potentially the BGH.[3]
What costs can arise?
- Lock and locking system replacement: invoices for materials and craftsmen.
- Emergency services or rush repairs: costs for urgent call-outs and labor.
- Loss of rent or access costs if apartment access is affected.
Immediate steps for tenants
- Report the loss in writing to your insurer and landlord immediately; state date, circumstances and possible consequences.
- Document: take photos, get witness statements, collect purchase or repair receipts.
- If there is a justified risk, have locks changed and keep cost estimates.
- Submit invoices and a short incident report to your liability insurer and request written confirmation of coverage.
Forms and official templates
For court or payment routes the following official procedures/forms may be relevant:
- Payment order/application for a court payment order (Mahnverfahren): if a landlord demands payment and payment is disputed.
- Filing a lawsuit at the local court (Amtsgericht): if there is a dispute about compensation claims.
Example: If the landlord demands 400 EUR for lock change, first send a detailed damage notification to your insurer and ask the landlord for an itemised invoice. If refused, a payment order may follow; if necessary, file a suit.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Does my personal liability cover lost keys?
- Many personal liability policies compensate costs if your lost key damages third parties; check your policy and report the loss immediately to the insurer.
- Who pays for lock replacement?
- If the loss creates a security risk for the landlord, the landlord can require a lock replacement; often the landlord then seeks compensation from the tenant who caused the loss, unless agreed otherwise.
- Where to turn in disputes?
- The local court (Amtsgericht) is competent for disputes about claims; in questions of law interpretation the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) may decide.
How-To
- Inform landlord and insurer in writing and request confirmations.
- Collect evidence: photos, witness statements and receipts for any consequences.
- Have locks professionally changed if there is a security risk and obtain quotes.
- Submit invoices and a damage description to your liability insurer and apply for reimbursement.
- If claims are unresolved, consider the payment order procedure or filing a lawsuit at the local court.
Key takeaways
- Documentation and quick notification are decisive for successful claims handling.
- Not every household insurance covers lock replacement; check terms carefully.
