Tenant Guide: Covering Lost Keys in Germany
As a tenant in a shared flat in Germany, losing a key is inconvenient and can quickly become costly. Many wonder whether their personal liability or household insurance will cover key replacement, lock changes or compensation. This article explains clearly which types of insurance are relevant, which documents you need, when to inform the property manager or landlord, and which deadlines to watch. We also describe practical steps like filing a police report, getting quotes, and possibly claiming against the responsible person. The goal is for flatmates to know their rights, check claims, and contact the right authorities and courts if a dispute arises.
Was Mieter in WGs wissen müssen
For the legal assessment it is decisive whether third parties were harmed by the loss or only the tenancy is affected. Fundamental rules on the tenancy agreement and duties of landlord and tenant are in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)[1]. For claims against third parties or eviction suits the Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) applies.[2] Rental disputes are usually heard in the Amtsgericht; higher instances are the Landgericht and, if necessary, the Federal Court of Justice.[3]
Welche Versicherung zahlt wann?
- Check liability insurance: It covers costs if lost keys put third parties at risk or if a third party suffers damage due to the loss.
- Check household insurance: It may cover locks or keys if personal keys linked to valuables are affected.
- Landlord or building insurance: Generally the landlord pays only if building property was damaged; clarify responsibility.
Praktische Unterlagen und Beweise
Collect evidence so that insurer and landlord can assess claims: purchase receipts for keys, photos, correspondence with landlord, quotes from locksmiths and a police report if it is unclear whether an offence occurred.
- Police report: If loss increases burglary risk, file a report which insurers often require.
- Quotes: At least one written quote for lock replacement or locking system.
- Communication: Keep all emails or messages to landlord and flatmates.
What to do step by step
Act systematically: report the loss immediately, document it, inform the insurer, obtain quotes and, if necessary, consider legal steps. Who pays depends on the case: in gross negligence by a flatmate there may be a claim for damages; in simple loss liability insurance usually covers third-party damage only.
Tips to limit costs
- Compare offers from locksmiths to avoid excessive charges.
- Clarify with landlord before replacement: some landlords require a specialist or the use of matching locking systems.
FAQ
- Does private liability insurance cover my lost flat key?
- Often yes, if the loss endangered third parties or a third party suffered damage; check your policy carefully and ask your insurer.
- Do I have to inform the landlord immediately?
- Yes, inform the landlord or property manager promptly, especially if a replacement or locking system change is required.
- How much does a lock change usually cost for a shared flat?
- Costs vary widely by system and provider; obtain at least one quote and submit it to insurers.
Anleitung
- Document: note date, place and circumstances of the loss and take photos.
- File a police report if burglary risk or uncertainty about offences exists.
- Inform landlord and flatmates immediately and check duties under operating costs or house rules.
- Get quotes and notify liability/household insurer; review the insurance policy.
- If dispute or denial occurs, consider legal advice; rental disputes are heard at the Amtsgericht.
