Tenant External Insurance in Germany: FAQ & Tips

Many tenants in Germany wonder whether external insurance is useful and how it differs from liability or household contents insurance. This guide explains clearly which damages are typically covered outside the apartment, what costs students and budget-conscious tenants may face, and which steps are necessary in case of damage or a move. We name relevant laws, show practical examples for using forms and provide tips on how to save on premiums without giving up important tenant protection.

What is external insurance?

External insurance often extends household contents or liability coverage by protecting items located outside the rented apartment — for example a bicycle, laptop on the way to university or luggage on vacation. For tenants this can be useful if valuable items are regularly used outside the home. Unlike pure liability insurance, it insures your own property damage.

Coverage: What tenants need to know

• Documentation: Photos and purchase receipts help with the claim and lead to faster payouts.
• Costs: Premiums vary depending on the value of insured property and duration of use.
• Repairs: Some policies cover repair costs instead of replacement.
• Forms: Many insurers require a claim form and a signed declaration.
• Deadlines: Claims should be reported promptly, often within a few days.

Who is responsible — tenant or landlord?

In general, the property and building structure remain the landlord's responsibility; personal belongings are the tenant's responsibility. For damages to the rental property, the duties from the rental agreement and the BGB (§§ 535–580a) apply. If third parties (e.g., contractors) cause damage, liability insurance may be relevant.^[1]

Practical examples and forms

Typical cases:

• Bicycle theft off the property: external insurance or additional coverage required.
• Damaged laptop on the go: documentation plus claim submission to the insurer.
• Termination due to moving: use a termination letter template if you terminate for personal reasons.

Save costs without losing protection

Compare coverage limits, deductibles and exclusions. For students, targeted add-ons are often useful instead of expensive full policies. Pay attention to annual limits for external risks and check whether the policy covers bicycles or electronic devices outside the apartment.

FAQ

Do I need external insurance as a tenant?

Not necessarily, but it is useful if you regularly use valuable items outside the apartment; it protects your own belongings in case of damage.

Is external insurance different from liability and household contents?

Yes: household contents covers furniture and items inside the apartment, liability covers damage you cause to third parties; external insurance extends coverage to certain items outside your home.

Which forms do I need for termination or eviction?

For a legally effective termination there are templates from the Federal Ministry of Justice; in legal disputes the ZPO applies and proceedings usually take place at the local court.^[2][3]

How-To

1. Document the damage: photos, date, location and witnesses.
2. Fill out the claim form: attach copies of invoices and proof and send to the insurer.
3. If in dispute: observe deadlines and, if necessary, file a claim at the local court or seek legal advice.

Key points

• Observe deadlines, otherwise claims may lapse.
• Compare policies for clear coverage limits and exclusions.
• Documentation increases the chances of successful claim settlements.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
• BMJ – Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Rental law decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection — Templates and information
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet