Tenant Liability Insurance in Germany for Students

As a tenant in Germany, students are often unsure which risks are covered by personal liability or household insurance and how to react correctly in case of damage. This guide explains in practical terms which damage cases are typically covered by liability insurance, when household insurance applies and which deadlines and forms must be observed. I describe step by step how to document damage, inform the landlord and the insurer, and which proofs are helpful, such as photos and cost estimates. You will also find notes on when legal proceedings before the local court are possible and which official sources and forms are relevant so that you as a student in Germany can assert your rights safely and clearly.

What does liability and household insurance cover?

Liability insurance protects you if you cause damage to a third party (personal or property damage). Household insurance replaces damage to movable household contents in your apartment, for example caused by fire, water damage, burglary or storm.

Common damage scenarios

• Water damage from a faulty washing machine or pipe (repair, water): Report immediately and document water levels and affected furniture.
• Damage to others' property in the stairwell (rent, deposit): Compensation claims are usually handled via liability insurance.
• Damage from electrical appliances or heating failure (heating, repairs): Check whether household or building insurance is responsible.

It is important to document quickly with photos, invoices and witness statements. Keep written records of communication with the landlord and insurer.

Deadlines and obligations

You should report damage without delay: to the landlord, the insurer and, if applicable, the property management. Deadlines for reporting may be in your insurance terms; check them. Statutory provisions from the BGB may be relevant for tenancy claims^[1], and rules of the ZPO apply for court proceedings^[2].

What to do in a dispute with the landlord?

First try a written clarification, document defects and deadlines, and seek mediation or advice. For unjustified termination or eviction, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible^[3].

Important forms and templates (for students)

As a tenant you should know these forms and templates: termination letter template for the tenancy; damage report to liability insurance; damage report to household insurance; application for legal aid or consultation assistance if court proceedings are possible. Use sample wordings, document expenses and attach photos and cost estimates.

FAQ

Does liability insurance cover damages in the rented apartment?

Liability insurance covers damages you cause to third parties. Damage to your own household contents is usually covered by household insurance.

Who pays for water damage: landlord, tenant or insurance?

It depends on cause and responsibility: tenant's fault may fall under liability insurance; building damage is usually covered by the landlord's building insurance.

Which proofs help with a damage claim?

Photos, date/time, invoices, cost estimates and witness statements are especially important.

How-To

1. Collect evidence (photos, invoices, document): Photograph the damage from multiple angles and save documents digitally and physically.
2. Inform landlord and insurer (notice): Send a written damage report to both parties and request confirmation.
3. Submit claim to the insurer (file): Submit documents to your liability or household insurer and note case numbers.
4. If necessary, consider legal action and file suit (court): Document deadlines and get advice before initiating proceedings at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• §§535–580a BGB (Mietrecht) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Information on courts and procedures – justiz.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] ZPO (Code of Civil Procedure) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Competent courts (local court) – justiz.de