Tenants: Bicycle Theft & Insurance in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know how to act if your bicycle is stolen in front of the building or from the bike cellar. This page explains in clear language which steps students and other tenants should take immediately, what claims are possible against household or liability insurance, and how tenancy law and reporting obligations interact. We name specific forms, deadlines and which authorities can help. The goal is for tenants to act quickly, secure evidence and submit damage reports correctly so that claims are not forfeited and financial consequences are limited.

What tenants should do now

Immediate measures help avoid later problems. First check for signs of forced entry and whether other items were affected. Inform the landlord, especially if communal storage areas are involved or a lock on communal property has been damaged, because under § 535 BGB landlords have maintenance and security duties.^[1]

• Take photos (photo) of the scene, damaged locks and the missing bicycle.
• Prepare the serial number and proof of purchase (evidence).
• Report to the police as soon as possible; the earlier, the better for investigations and insurance claims (within).^[2]
• Submit a damage claim to your household insurance; observe deadlines and form requirements (form).

Insurances: Liability vs. Household

Household insurance usually covers theft of movable items in your home, often with specific exclusions for use outdoors. Liability insurance only applies if a third party (e.g., a visitor) negligently enabled the theft and thus a claim exists against that person. Check your policies carefully for bicycle theft coverage and compensation limits; some tariffs require certain locks (e.g., certified types).

If communal storage rooms are inadequately secured, the landlord may in some cases be held responsible; there are relevant decisions by the Federal Court of Justice in specific cases.^[3]

FAQ

Who pays if my bicycle is stolen in front of the building?

In many cases, household insurance covers the damage if the theft is a covered event and required security measures were observed. Liability only applies to claims against third parties.

Do I have to inform the police?

Yes, a report is usually a prerequisite for insurance settlement and possible investigations.

Can I hold the landlord liable?

Only if it can be proven that the landlord breached the duty to secure communal areas and this led to concrete damage.

How-To

1. Report the theft to the police within 24 hours (within) and obtain a confirmation.
2. Collect evidence: photos, receipts, serial numbers and witness statements (photo, evidence).
3. File a written damage claim with your household insurer and use the required forms (form).
4. Check possible reimbursements from third-party liability insurers and clarify deductibles and payout amounts (payment).

Help and Support / Resources

• § 535 BGB: Contents and main obligations of the tenancy agreement
• Police: Information on reporting crimes
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH): Case law and decisions

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) – § 535 Tenancy Agreement
2. [2] Police – Information on filing a criminal report
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law