Liability Insurance for Students: Renters in Germany

Many students rent accommodation and may underestimate the risk of causing damage. Liability insurance protects against costs when personal mistakes harm third parties or the rented flat — for example, a leaking washing machine, damaged doors or injured visitors. For renters in Germany this is particularly important: landlords can claim damages or reduce the security deposit. This article explains which situations are typical liability cases, when insurance pays, which forms and deadlines to observe and how to involve the local court or higher courts if disputes arise. At the end you will find a step-by-step guide, frequently asked questions and official links to laws and courts.

What does personal liability insurance cover for students?

Liability insurance covers personal injury and property damage you cause as a student to third parties — for example if a spilled liquid destroys expensive electronics or a visitor slips on a wet stair. For renters it is important: damages to rented rooms or furnishings are often covered by liability insurance if the damage was accidental and not intentional. Rights and obligations in the tenancy relationship are regulated in the BGB, §§ 535–580a.^[1]

When does the insurance not pay?

There is usually no coverage for intentional acts, gross negligence or damages arising from professional activity. If you work commercially in the flat or regularly care for third parties, check the contract carefully. Exclusions often include damage to your own belongings and damages caused by unreported roommates or pets if they are not covered.

Practical steps after damage

Act quickly: document photos, witnesses and invoices, inform the landlord in writing and report the damage to your liability insurer. If the landlord makes claims, first check whether the deposit is affected and whether the claim is justified. In case of dispute, litigation at the local court may be necessary; procedural rules follow the ZPO.^[2]

Rights and courts

For unjustified claims contact the local justice authorities: tenancy disputes are usually first heard at the Amtsgericht; appeals go to the Landgericht, and the BGH decides on fundamental legal questions.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need liability insurance as a student if I rent?

Yes. As a renter you can be held liable for damage in the flat or to third parties; liability insurance protects against high costs and landlord claims.

Does liability insurance cover damage in the rented flat?

Often yes, if the damage was accidental. Check your policy for exclusions, deductibles and coverage limits.

What should I do if the landlord demands compensation?

Document the damage, report it in writing and contact your liability insurer; check deadlines and the local court if disputes arise.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: photos, witnesses and invoices (evidence).
2. Report the damage in writing and submit a form or short incident report (form).
3. Observe deadlines: respond within set deadlines.
4. File a claim at the competent local court if necessary (court).

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) Entscheidungen