Under Section 823 of the German Civil Code (BGB), everyone is liable without limit, with all their assets, for damage they negligently cause to others. Personal liability insurance is therefore one of the most important policies for anyone living in Germany.

Damage to the rented property (Mietsachschäden)

A Privathaftpflicht policy that includes damage to rented property protects tenants against unintentional damage to the flat, such as a deep scratch in the parquet or a washing machine flooding the flat below. Damage to glass, sanitary fittings and appliances is excluded under some policies – check the terms.

Losing a key to the building's master-key system

Many apartment buildings have a master-key system (Schließanlage): one key opens the front door, the cellar, the bin area and your flat. If it is lost, the whole system may need replacing at a cost of €1,500 to €5,000; a good policy covers this up to the agreed limit.

What to look for in the cover

A good family policy should have a sum insured (Deckungssumme) of at least €20 to €50 million, include damage caused by children under the age of criminal responsibility (deliktsunfähige Kinder) and offer cover if the person who damages your property cannot pay (Forderungsausfalldeckung).

Cost and providers

Despite its importance, personal liability insurance is cheap: a good individual policy costs around €40 to €60 a year and a family policy around €65 to €90. Providers include Haftpflichtkasse, HUK-Coburg, Allianz and Getsafe.

What to check

  • Check that damage to rented property is included in the policy.
  • Make sure the loss of keys to a master-key system is covered.
  • Add a copy of the policy to your rental application file.
  • Include all family members living with you in the policy.

Example situation

A tenant's washing machine leaks and damages the ceiling of the flat below; the liability insurance pays for the repairs, and the tenant does not have to pay the €1,400 out of his own pocket.

Next step

Personal liability insurance costs little and protects you from ruinous claims; take it out in your first week after moving.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.