Liability Insurance for Tenants & WGs in Germany

Living in a shared flat often raises the question whether an individuals liability insurance covers damage to furniture, other peoples property, or fellow flatmates. In Germany insurance terms vary: some policies exclude gross negligence or communal damages, while others offer extended coverage for shared flats. This article explains clearly which risks tenants in WGs typically should insure, how shared rental items and personal belongings are treated, when a separate WG insurance makes sense, and what steps to take when filing a claim. At the end you will find references to relevant sections of the BGB and links to official forms for termination or damage reports.

What does liability insurance cover in a WG?

Liability insurance normally covers personal and property damage you cause to others. In shared flats it is important to determine whether a policy covers individual residents or the whole household. Common covered cases include damage to other peoples belongings, accidental water damage caused by improper behavior, or personal injuries to guests. Check coverage limits and whether communal furniture is explicitly included.

What tenants should watch

• Damage to others property (repair)
• Legal consequences in liability disputes (court)
• Damage to shared furniture (repair)
• Liability for pets and safety (safety)

Typical exclusions and special rules

Many policies exclude intentional damage or gross negligence. Some insurers require the names of all residents in the WG, others allow blanket add-ons. For tenancy-related liability issues, also consult the provisions of the BGB^[1].

Forms and templates

Important official templates and guidance tenants can use in cases of damage or termination:

• Termination letter template from the ministry (termination)  use a dated letter and send by registered mail if needed for proof.
• Standard insurance damage report (form)  include photos, witness statements and cost estimates.
• Eviction claim and court information (court)  if disputes escalate, the local court (Amtsgericht) handles tenancy cases.

For official forms and further templates consult the relevant authority pages and complete all required information^[2].

What to do in a dispute or termination?

If the landlord threatens termination or demands compensation, document the damage, inform your flatmates and check your policy. Minor damages are often resolved amicably; for legal disputes the Amtsgericht is the first instance for tenancy matters in Germany^[3]. Seek advice early and respond to deadlines.

FAQ

Do I need my own liability insurance as a WG member?

Not necessarily, but it can be sensible: if a flatmates policy only covers their personal liability, other residents may remain uninsured; check whether joint coverage or separate policies are needed.

Does the policy cover damage to shared furniture?

It depends on the contract. Some policies exclude communal furniture, others include it; keep purchase receipts and clarify coverage with your insurer.

When should I inform the landlord?

Inform the landlord promptly for major damages or when the damage affects the tenancy; in some cases obligations arise from the lease or the BGB^[1].

How-To

1. Document the damage: take photos, note dates and name witnesses.
2. Inform landlord and flatmates: send a concise, evidence-backed message.
3. Report the damage to your insurer: attach receipts and estimates.
4. Observe deadlines: respond to claims within stated timeframes to protect your rights.
5. Consider court action: if necessary, the local court is the place for tenancy disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)  Gesetze im Internet
• Justizportal  information on courts and procedures
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)  decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)  Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Forms and templates  Federal Ministry of Justice
3. [3] Justizportal  information on courts and procedures
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)  decisions