Tenants in Germany: Check External Insurance
As a tenant in Germany you may wonder whether external insurance is necessary: it protects items stored or used outside the flat, for example bicycles, garden furniture or tools. This article explains in plain language when external insurance can make sense, which damages are typically covered, what to watch for when comparing policies and which official rules and forms are important if a loss occurs. I provide practical examples, simple steps for filing claims and which authorities or courts you can contact. The goal is that you, as a tenant, can decide with confidence and act correctly in the event of damage. Read on for practical checklists.
What is external insurance?
External insurance extends the household or liability policy to protect movable items outside the rented flat, such as on the balcony, in the cellar compartment or items parked outside. External insurance often covers theft, vandalism and weather damage, but scope and exclusions vary by provider. In some cases external insurance is sensible for tenants because standard household policies limit coverage for outdoor areas.[1]
Key coverage areas and differences
- Check sum insured and limits: pay attention to the maximum reimbursement for items outside the flat.
- Item categories: clarify whether bicycles, tools, prams or e-bikes are included.
- Repair costs and partial coverage (repair): check whether repairs or only total loss are reimbursed.
- Proof and forms (notice): read the reporting obligations and deadlines precisely in the insurance terms.
- Documentation (evidence): photos, purchase receipts and a damage description increase the chances of a successful claim.
Tariffs also differ in deductibles, exclusions (e.g. gross negligence) and geographic protection. Some policies cover only private property, others exclude cellars or publicly accessible areas. Read the contract terms carefully and compare two providers using the same damage amount as an example.
Practical example for tenants
Example 1: A bicycle is stolen from the courtyard. Option A: your household insurance without external insurance pays only limited amounts for bicycle theft outside locked rooms. Option B: with sufficient external insurance you receive the new value minus any agreed deductible. Example 2: garden furniture damaged by storm – check whether weather damage is explicitly included.
Tenant rights and obligations in Germany
As a tenant you still have the duty to secure your own belongings; defects in the leased property are the landlord's responsibility under the BGB, but not damage to movable property of the tenant outside the flat[1]. For disputes about liability or compensation, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; the Federal Court of Justice is relevant for legal precedents[2].
FAQ
- Does my household insurance automatically cover items in the cellar or on the balcony?
- Not always; many household contracts limit coverage outside the flat. Check the policy or ask your insurer.
- When is external insurance particularly recommended?
- If you regularly store or use expensive bicycles, e-bikes or tools outside your flat, additional coverage is worthwhile.
- Which court do I contact in case of a dispute about a payment?
- Usually the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for tenancy disputes; higher instances are the district court (Landgericht) and possibly the Federal Court of Justice.
How-To
- Document the damage: take photos, note date, place and witnesses.
- Check the insurance terms: look for "external insurance" and relevant exclusions.
- Report the damage: contact your insurer and submit evidence.
- If there is a dispute: seek advice and consider filing in the local court.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB §535 – Duties of the landlord
- Federal Court of Justice – case law on tenancy
- Justice portal – information on local courts
