Lost Keys: Tenant Rights in Germany 2025

If you are a tenant in Germany and lose your apartment key, act quickly and carefully. First search thoroughly, then immediately inform the landlord and check whether lock system or special cylinder protection is regulated in the lease. Document time, place and circumstances of the loss as well as all cost receipts; this helps later for insurance claims or disputes with the landlord. Also check whether your private liability or household insurance covers damages or replacement costs and whether filing a police report makes sense. In case of disputes local district courts are competent; legal deadlines and obligations follow from tenancy law (BGB) and the Code of Civil Procedure.^[1]

Immediate actions

Act promptly: search again thoroughly, lock or secure possible accesses if theft is suspected and inform the landlord in writing. Some leases require immediate notification in case of key loss; check your contract and respond within any deadlines.

Quick steps

• Inform the landlord in writing and document the time.
• If theft is suspected, consider filing a police report.
• Obtain cost estimates for cylinder replacement or repair.
• Check whether private liability or household insurance applies.

Who must pay depends on fault and the lease. Generally the BGB regulates the duties of landlord and tenant; the landlord must maintain the rental in usable condition, and the tenant may be liable for damages caused by culpable behavior.^[1]

Insurance: Liability vs. Household

Private liability insurance may cover costs if you can show the loss was not due to gross negligence. Household insurance usually covers stolen personal items but not infrastructure damage or lock replacement costs, which are typically a liability issue. Contact your insurers early and ask about the claims process.

What landlords may do

A landlord may order a lock change if there is a justified safety concern, but must generally act proportionately and inform about costs and access. Landlords often request a replacement key or a new cylinder. If the change is necessary, the landlord may demand costs from the tenant if the tenant is responsible for the loss.

Collecting evidence and communication

Document each step in writing: timestamps, photos, estimates and emails. Ask the landlord for written confirmation of any cost claims and an itemized statement if they demand reimbursement. These documents are important for insurance claims and possible court proceedings.

FAQ

Who pays for a lock change after key loss?

It depends on whether the tenant is at fault. Without fault, the landlord usually cannot simply shift costs; in doubt the BGB governs the parties' obligations.^[1]

Does liability insurance cover lock replacement?

Some private liability policies cover costs for negligent loss, others do not. Check your policy and report the damage immediately to your insurer.

Should I inform the police?

If theft is suspected, filing a police report is advisable; it serves as evidence for insurers and the landlord.

How-To

1. Immediate check: review last use and possible locations.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and ask for instructions.
3. Report to the police in case of theft and get a report number.
4. Contact your insurer and submit a claim.
5. Keep receipts, estimates and correspondence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms & Guidance

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - official website