Which insurance do you need in Germany? Liability and the rest

2 min read · 7 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

In Germany you are liable without limit for damage you cause to others, with everything you own and earn. That is why private liability insurance is so widespread. Most other policies sold to newcomers are optional, and some are not worth the money.

Rules, amounts and deadlines change. Check the official source named at the end before you act, and ask the office in your city, because procedures differ from town to town.

Step by step

1. Start with liability insurance

   It covers damage you cause by accident: the red wine on a friend's sofa, the cyclist you knock over, water damage to the flat below. Children and small pets in the household are usually included. It also defends you against claims that are not justified.

   Done

2. Check the cover

   Handbook Germany recommends a sum insured of at least 5 million euros. Useful extras for tenants are damage to rented property (Mietsachschäden) and loss of keys (Schlüsselverlust).

   Done

3. Think about household contents insurance

   Hausratversicherung pays for your belongings after fire, burglary, storm or burst pipes: furniture, clothes, electronics. It is worth it if replacing everything would be a real problem. After a claim you must report to the insurer at once, to the police after a burglary, and hand in a list of what is missing.

   Done

4. If you have a car: motor insurance is compulsory

   You cannot register a car without motor liability insurance (Kfz-Haftpflicht). Partial or fully comprehensive cover on top is optional and mainly makes sense for newer cars.

   Done

5. If you have a dog

   Dog liability insurance is compulsory in several states and sensible everywhere, because a normal liability policy covers only small pets.

   Done

6. Compare before you sign

   Prices differ a lot for the same cover. Use a comparison website and read the tests of the consumer organisations. The consumer advice centre (Verbraucherzentrale) gives independent advice for a small fee.

   Done

7. Know how to get out

   Most policies run for one year and renew automatically. You can usually cancel with three months' notice before the end of the year, and after any claim or price rise.

   Done

Good to know

Often sold and often unnecessary: phone insurance, glass insurance, travel luggage insurance. Decide after the important ones are in place.

For people who live from their work, occupational disability insurance (Berufsunfähigkeitsversicherung) is considered important by consumer organisations, but it is expensive and needs individual advice.

Many landlords ask for proof of liability insurance: how to find a flat in Germany: documents and scams.

The compulsory part: health insurance in Germany: how it works for newcomers.

In short: Liability insurance first, at least 5 million euros, about 50 to 80 euros a year. Then household contents if needed, motor insurance for a car, dog liability, compare, cancel in time.