Tenants in Germany: Household & Liability Insurance

As a tenant in Germany you want to protect your belongings and act correctly after a loss. This guide clearly explains when household or liability insurance helps, how to report bicycle theft, burglary or water damage and which sample letters you can use. I explain which documents are important, how to communicate with landlord, police and insurer and which deadlines must be observed. The advice takes relevant laws and typical local court procedures into account so that you as a tenant know your rights and can apply them practically. You will learn how to secure photos and receipts, which deadlines apply to the police and insurer and when a sample letter to the landlord makes sense.

What tenants in Germany should note

Household insurance replaces movable items in the flat after theft, fire or water damage; liability insurance covers damages you cause to others. Which obligations and recommendations apply depends on the contract, the cause of damage and responsibility. Notes on tenancy obligations can be found in the BGB.^[1]

Steps after theft or damage

Act promptly: report to the police, secure evidence, inform the landlord and submit a damage claim to the insurer. Many claims are subject to deadlines and formal requirements.

• Inform the police and file a report (immediately after discovery).
• Take photos of the scene and damaged items and collect receipts.
• Notify the landlord in writing and briefly document the damage.
• Submit a damage report to household and, if applicable, liability insurance.

Sample letters and wording

A sample letter to the insurer or landlord should include date, description of damage, list of lost items and a copy of the police report. State replacement values or purchase receipts if available.

• Specify date and place of the incident precisely.
• Attach the police file number and reference if available.
• List items with approximate new value and receipts.
• Request confirmation of receipt and processing deadlines.

Which forms and authorities matter

Many steps require only standard information, rarely a special form. For court disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; proceedings and claims follow the ZPO and relevant tenancy law.^[2]

FAQ

What does household insurance cover?

Household insurance replaces movable items in your home for burglary, fire and water damage. Electronics, bicycles and personal items are typically included; check the policy for details.

When does private liability insurance apply?

Liability insurance pays if you damage third parties, for example when causing damage to a stairwell during a move. It covers personal and property damage but not damage to your own household contents.

Do I always have to report theft to the police?

Yes, a police report is important for insurance claims and later claims; it serves as proof of the incident.

How-To

1. File a police report and note the file number.
2. Inform the insurer by phone and ask about deadlines.
3. Collect photos, purchase receipts and repair offers and make copies.
4. Send the sample letter to insurer and landlord and request confirmation.

Help and Support

• [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• [2] Bundesgerichtshof
• [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz

---

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz