Tenants: Budget Liability Insurance in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, private liability insurance is often an affordable protection that covers third-party damages and can prevent costly claims from the landlord. This guide helps you find the right budget-friendly policy, check which damages are typically covered, and spot common exclusions. We explain how to compare offers, which forms and deadlines matter, the role of the local court or, for appeals, higher courts, and how to report a claim correctly ^[1]. The advice is practical and tailored to tenant questions in Germany so you can reduce risks, control costs and be prepared in case of dispute. At the end you'll find a short FAQ, a step-by-step claim guide and links to official forms.

What does liability insurance cover for tenants?

Liability insurance protects against third-party claims arising from personal injury or property damage. For tenants it is especially relevant whether rental property damage (for example damage to fixtures or pipes) is covered and what limits apply. Check policy terms like "rental property damage" and "loss of rent coverage" as well as possible exclusions.

• Damage to others' property (repair) — e.g., broken furniture or damaged electronics.
• Personal injury (warning) — coverage for injuries to third parties in your flat.
• Rental property damage due to your fault (rent) — important for damage to rented fixtures or building parts.

How to choose budget-friendly?

Compare annual premiums, coverage limits and deductibles. A higher deductible often lowers the premium but raises your out-of-pocket cost in a claim. Watch for exclusions like long-term damage or workplace injuries and check whether temporary subtenants or pets are included.

• Collect evidence (document): photos, invoices and correspondence for every claim.
• Policy review (form): read conditions on coverage limits and exclusions.
• Observe deadlines (calendar): report damages promptly, usually within a few days.

If the landlord asserts claims, a civil dispute can follow; in many cases the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent, with the higher courts handling appeals. The Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) governs filing and eviction actions ^[2].

How to report a claim correctly?

Call your insurer first and report the damage in writing. Describe cause, date, damages and attach evidence. Provide witnesses and include invoices or estimates. If the landlord makes claims, forward them immediately to your insurer.

• Report in writing (form) — by e-mail or via the customer portal.
• Attach evidence (document) — photos, invoices, notes about the incident.
• Stay in contact (contact) — confirm receipt and ask for the claim number.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does liability insurance cover damage to my rental flat?

Many policies cover rental property damage up to certain limits; check your policy carefully and inform your insurer if damage occurred due to your fault ^[1].

What if the landlord makes an unjustified claim?

Object in writing and provide copies to your insurer; in disputes the local court or a higher court will usually decide ^[2].

Which forms or templates do I need as a tenant?

Useful templates include claim forms or termination letters; official guidance and forms are available from the judiciary and the Federal Ministry of Justice ^[4].

How-To

1. Immediately gather evidence: photos, witness statements, invoices and the date.
2. Contact your insurer and submit the claim with attachments.
3. Keep contact with the insurer and the landlord; note call times and contacts.
4. For legal steps check jurisdiction and deadlines and consider the local court as the initial forum ^[3].

Help and Support / Resources

• §§ 535–580a BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Justice Portal – Information on local courts

---

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Justizportal – Informationen zu Gerichten
4. [4] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz – BMJV