Liability Insurance for Tenants & Students in Germany

As a tenant or student in Germany, a small accident in the shared flat or during a move can quickly cause high costs. Personal liability insurance often covers damages you cause to third parties — for example damaged furniture, broken smartphones or water damage in the apartment. This article briefly explains which damages are typically covered, how to report the claim correctly and which deadlines apply for tenants. We also state when household contents insurance (Hausrat) rather than liability insurance applies and which documents courts and insurers may require. The language remains practical and clear so you can take prompt, legally compliant steps in the event of a claim.

What does personal liability insurance cover?

Liability insurance generally compensates damages you cause to others: property damage, personal injury and consequential financial loss. For rental property damage (e.g. water damage to flooring) the liable party's liability insurance often applies; legal rights and obligations in the tenancy relationship are regulated in the BGB (§§ 535–580a).^[1]

• Damaged third-party items (e.g. broken lamp, furniture).
• Personal injury with liability consequences (e.g. injury to visitors).
• Financial loss arising from liability claims (e.g. compensation claims).
• Damage to the rented property caused by negligence (e.g. washing machine leak).

Household contents insurance or personal liability?

Household contents insurance covers your own belongings (e.g. stolen laptop, fire in the room), while liability insurance pays for damage to third parties. For water damage affecting your furniture, household contents insurance usually applies; for damage to the rental property caused by your conduct, liability insurance often covers the claim.

How to report a claim

Correct and prompt reporting increases the chance of swift settlement. First notify your insurer in writing and collect evidence: photos, witness names and receipts. If legal proceedings are imminent, local courts (Amtsgericht) are usually responsible and procedural rules from the ZPO apply.^[4][2]

• Take photos (photo) and document the damage.
• Inform your insurer by phone immediately and confirm in writing.
• Complete the claim form if requested and attach receipts.
• Observe deadlines: report as soon as possible, often within a few days.

What the insurer expects from you

Insurers require a clear account of the incident, supporting documents and sometimes a sworn statement if facts are unclear. Provide witness names, attach receipts and avoid speculation.

Claim and court

If a dispute cannot be resolved extrajudicially, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually rules in the first instance for tenancy disputes and eviction claims. The rules of civil procedure (ZPO) apply to court actions, for example regarding filing suit and deadlines.^[4][2]

Frequently Asked Questions

Does personal liability insurance cover water damage in the rented apartment?

Yes, if the water damage was caused by your fault (e.g. defective washing machine) to the rented property, the liability insurance may cover it; it does not cover your own household items.

What happens if the landlord terminates the lease because of damage?

A termination must be legally reviewed; tenants have rights under the BGB (§§ 535–580a). For termination or eviction matters the local court is responsible.^[1][4]

What deadlines apply when reporting to the insurer?

Deadlines vary, but report damages immediately and in writing within a few days to avoid denial of coverage.

How-To

1. Document the damage: take photos, note date/time and witnesses.
2. Notify the insurer: call, report the claim and note the claim number.
3. Submit forms and receipts: complete the claim form and attach evidence.
4. Observe deadlines: respond to time limits and seek legal advice if unsure.

Key Takeaways

• Good documentation speeds up claim settlement.
• Report promptly to avoid formal denials.
• Distinguish between household contents and liability coverages.

Help and Support / Resources

• Local courts (Amtsgericht): information on jurisdictions and procedures
• BGB: Tenancy law §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• ZPO: Civil Procedure — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH): leading decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Information on local courts (Amtsgericht) — justiz.de
5. [5] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de