Tenant External Insurance in Germany 2025
What is external insurance?
External insurance describes how damage outside the apartment - for example to balconies, bicycle storage or shared outdoor areas - can be covered by liability or household contents insurance. For tenants it is important to know which damages are covered, who must notify and how claims for damages against third parties arise.
When does external insurance apply?
External insurance typically applies when a third party (e.g. neighbor, visitor) causes damage or when the damage falls under the scope of your liability or household contents policy. There are often differences for broken glass, storm damage or vandalism; read your policy carefully.
- Repairs to shared areas or outdoor facilities
- Damage by third parties with evidence (photos, witness)
- Reimbursement of costs if liability of a third party is proven
Key steps for fast settlement
As a tenant you should proceed systematically: document the damage, send the damage report to your insurer, inform the landlord and observe deadlines. The more complete the documents, the faster the settlement.
- Report the damage in writing and provide the policy number
- Collect photos, date, witnesses and cost estimates
- Observe deadlines: report damages within a few days if possible
- Contact insurer and landlord promptly
Official forms and templates
There is no uniform nationwide mandatory template for every damage report, but for legal steps and certain applications use the official court forms or the statutory texts as a basis. Examples and uses:
- Statement of claim (civil claim) – For an eviction claim or dispute over damages you file a statement of claim under the ZPO. As a tenant use the form or the requirements of the competent local court.[2]
- Defect notification / damage report – No official federal form, but always submit in writing with date, damage description and evidence; state your insurance number and request written confirmation of receipt.
- Supporting documents – Collect cost estimates, photos, witness names and invoices; this documentation supports your claim under the provisions of the BGB.[1]
Legal basis and competent authorities
In German tenancy law the relevant provisions are primarily found in the Civil Code (BGB), e.g. landlord duties and rules on damages.[1] Court proceedings follow the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), e.g. for eviction claims or claims for damages.[2] Special regulations apply for operating costs and heating costs, such as the Operating Costs Regulation or the Heating Costs Ordinance.[3] Tenancy disputes are usually heard before the competent local court (Amtsgericht); on appeal the regional court and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice are responsible.[4]
FAQ
- When must I inform my landlord about an outside damage?
- Inform the landlord immediately in writing if the damage affects use or concerns communal property. Attach photos and a short damage description.
- Does my household contents insurance cover damage outside the apartment?
- Household contents insurance generally covers movable items only; outdoor facilities are often the responsibility of liability insurance or specific add-ons. Check your policy.
- How much does a lawsuit against the perpetrator or landlord cost me?
- Costs depend on the value in dispute (court and lawyer fees). For low dispute values it is worth seeking advice from a consumer center or city legal counseling first.
How-To
- Document the damage immediately with date and photos.
- Write a formal damage report to your insurer and to the landlord.
- Collect cost estimates, witness statements and receipts.
- Contact the claims department of the insurer and note reference numbers.
- If settlement fails, consider legal action at the competent local court.
- Close the case by confirming all payments and agreements in writing.
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code (BGB) - texts
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - texts
- Judicial portal - information on local courts
