While liability insurance in Germany might not be compulsory, it is one of the most popular voluntary insurances in the country. It protects you from paying great amounts of money in compensation for any unforeseen damages you cause to others or their property. Having liability insurance in Germany gives you peace of mind as it ensures that you are not left financially vulnerable after unexpected mishaps.
Home » Moving to Germany » Living in Germany » Importance of Liability Insurance
Table of content
- Importance of liability insurance
- What should liability insurance cover?
- What the Fintiba liability insurance covers
- What is not covered?
- Summary
Related Pages
- Best cities to visit in Germany
- Driving License in Germany
- German food culture
- Supermarkets in Germany
- Adapting to German culture
- Cost of Living in Germany
- Drinking tap water in Germany
- German Education System
- Healthcare in Germany
- How to Invest Money in Germany
- Public Holidays in Germany
- Religion in Germany
- Seasons in Germany
- Tax classes
Why is it important to have liability insurance in Germany?
Liability insurance (“Haftpflichtversicherung”) is also commonly known as personal or private liability insurance (“Privathaftpflichtversicherung”).
By German law, if you cause any damage to others or their property, you are entirely liable with all your private assets. While there are cases where the costs are low enough for you to pay out of your own pocket (e.g., breaking a vase), if the damages include medical costs or the replacement of expensive property, the amount could easily reach and surpass five digits.
Example: If you accidentally hit someone with your bike and they break a bone, you would be 100% liable for the medical treatment costs.
With liability insurance, the insurance company will cover the costs and also defend you from unjustified claims, in the case that you are wrongly accused. Aside from protecting you financially, having liability insurance gives a peace of mind.
What does German liability insurance cover?
You should make sure your liability insurance offers you sufficient protection. Ensure that the insurance company covers the following at a minimum:
- The minimum amount of coverage should be at least 10 million euros. A coverage of 50 million euros is better and typically only costs a few euros more
- The insurance should cover injuries, property damage and financial losses
- Insurance for the loss of your keys. This is particularly important if you are living in student housing. The replacement of locks and keys can become very expensive
- Personal liability insurance in Germany should also offer coverage for rental damages. This is in the case of damages caused to your rented apartment.
What does the Fintiba liability insurance cover?
Here is an overview of the damages covered by the Fintiba liability insurance:
Insured amount for person, object and financial damages: | € 5,000,000.00 max. per event |
Damages to rental property: | € 1,000,000.00 max. per event |
Key loss: | € 100,000.00 max. per event |
Deductible | € 100.00 per event |
Protection against unjustified claims: | Yes |
Valid for short term stays in other countries | Yes (*not in home country) |
Stay protected with the Fintiba liability insurance in Germany
Read more about how to register for personal liability insurance in Germany, learn about the process of filing a claim and protect yourself with the Fintiba liability insurance.
Get liability insurance now
What does liability insurance not cover?
Typically, personal liability insurance does not cover self-inflicted injuries or damages. If you damage your TV yourself or break your phone, you will have to pay for it yourself.
Similarly, if you cause any damage to someone covered under your policy (e.g., your partner or child), your liability insurance is not going to pay for this.
While the loss of keys is covered by liability insurance, calling a locksmith after locking yourself out will not be paid for by the insurance company.
Liability insurance in Germany also does cover damages or accidents cause by your car. It is necessary to have car insurance for such incidents.
If your dog causes any damage to your neighbour’s garden or chews up your couch, your personal liability insurance cover these costs. You will need a dedicated dog liability insurance.
Summary
In conclusion, private liability insurance in Germany is a crucial safeguard for all individuals. Having one protects you from finding yourself in a financially vulnerable position after causing expensive unintentional damages to a third party.
When selecting a liability insurance cover, keep in mind the minimum coverage to keep you protected. Additionally, remember there are incidents that personal liability insurance cannot protect you from.
The Fintiba Companion: Guiding your way to Germany step-by-step
Never miss an important step on your journey to Germany. From preparing your university application to mastering your visa application and navigating through daily life in Germany – the Fintiba Companion provides you with relevant information throughout all important stages of your German adventure within a comprehensive checklist – tailored to your individual situation.
START YOUR JOURNEY
Last update:July 15, 2024