Liability Insurance in Germany
Liability insurance protects you against damage you cause to third parties.
Why It’s Essential to Have Liability Insurance in Germany
Accidents can happen at any time – and in Germany, even small mistakes can lead to large financial claims. Private liability insurance protects you from unexpected costs if you accidentally injure someone or damage their property.
It’s not only essential for peace of mind, but often required for visa applications, especially for students, au pairs, and long-term visitors. Many universities and landlords also expect proof of liability coverage before enrolment or signing a rental contract.
Affordable protection – Ideal for anyone moving to Germany, especially renters
Visa support – Meets common insurance requirements for residence permits
Strong coverage – Secure your future with comprehensive insurance at a fair price
Experience Peace of Mind With Fintiba
Liability insurance is your safeguard against unexpected damages. With Fintiba, you can easily secure coverage for third-party and rental damages.
Discover the Benefits of Fintiba Insurance
Fintiba liability insurance offers comprehensive protection against potential damages you may cause to others. For just €55.00 per year, you can secure peace of mind during your stay in Germany.
Why Choose Fintiba Liability Insurance?
Your insurance begins on the first day of your stay.
Flexible and Convenient Coverage Options
Payment is only required once you arrive in Germany.
Comprehensive Coverage for Your Needs
Damages to rental properties and lost keys are covered.
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Discover comprehensive health coverage with BARMER for your stay in Germany.
Understanding the Liability Insurance Process
Liability insurance provides essential coverage for unexpected damages. It ensures peace of mind by protecting you against costly claims.
1. Occurrence of damage
2. Report the damage to the insurer
3. Wait for the confirmation of the insurer
4. Restore or replace damaged object
5. Send the repair bill to the insurer
6. Damage amount will be refunded
What Is Liability Insurance in Germany?
Liability insurance in Germany (Haftpflichtversicherung) is a type of personal insurance that covers you in case you unintentionally cause damage to someone else or their property. It helps pay for costs such as repair expenses, medical bills, or legal claims that arise from these incidents.
This form of insurance is considered essential because even minor accidents can result in significant financial consequences. While the term “liability insurance” can refer to various types (e.g., for businesses, vehicles, or professionals), here we focus on private liability insurance – the kind most individuals need in everyday life.
The Importance of Liability Insurance
Liability insurance is important because, under German law, individuals are personally responsible for any damage they cause – even if it’s accidental. For example, if you break someone’s laptop, cause a bicycle crash, or flood your neighbor’s apartment, you could be liable for thousands of euros.
Without insurance, you’d have to cover these costs yourself. A liability policy helps protect your financial well-being by absorbing such risks.
This type of insurance doesn't cover any of your medical costs. For this, you need valid health insurance.
Is Liability Insurance Mandatory in Germany?
No, private liability insurance is not legally required in Germany. However, it is strongly recommended for everyone, especially international students, expats, and families. Some universities and landlords even request proof of coverage before granting access to housing or facilities.
In certain professions or situations (e.g. doctors, architects, or dog owners), specialized forms of liability insurance can be mandatory under German regulations.
Who Should Consider Liability Insurance?
Everyone living in Germany should consider getting personal liability insurance. This includes:
• International students and researchers
• Expats and visa holders
• Families with children
• Individuals renting apartments
• Pet owners
For newcomers, having a policy offers peace of mind while adjusting to a new environment. Even small incidents can lead to unexpected claims, and this insurance offers a safety net in such cases.
Experience Peace of Mind With Fintiba
Liability insurance is your safeguard against unexpected damages. With Fintiba, you can easily secure coverage for third-party and rental damages.
What Does Liability Insurance Typically Cover?
Liability insurance in Germany protects you if you accidentally cause damage to others – either physically, materially, or financially. It’s designed to cover unexpected incidents in daily life that could lead to compensation claims or lawsuits. From broken electronics to medical bills, a good policy can save you from high out-of-pocket expenses.
What’s Not Covered by Liability Insurance?
Although personal liability insurance in Germany offers broad protection, there are several important exclusions. Understanding these limitations is essential to avoid surprises when filing a claim. These exclusions often apply regardless of which provider you choose.
Situations Where Coverage Is Not Valid
Some events are never covered under a private liability policy, such as:
• Damage caused intentionally
• Injuries or losses related to criminal acts
• Damage to your own property
• Incidents involving family members in the same household
These exclusions are standard and apply even if the damage was partly accidental.
Are Work-Related and High-Risk Activities Covered by Liability Insurance?
No, personal liability insurance in Germany does not cover work-related or high-risk activities.
If you cause damage while performing professional tasks or services, you need separate professional liability insurance. Personal policies exclude any losses linked to employment or freelance work.
High-risk activities – such as extreme sports, competitive events, or firearm use – are also excluded. These require special coverage, often through dedicated providers or add-on policies.
How Much Does Liability Insurance Cost in Germany?
The average cost of liability insurance in Germany is between €3 and €6 per month for basic coverage. This makes it one of the most affordable types of insurance, even for students and newcomers.
Annual premiums typically range from €30 to €70, depending on the provider and coverage level.
What Is the Average Monthly Premium?
For individuals without children, pets, or special risk factors, the standard monthly premium is around €4. This covers common everyday incidents, including damage to third-party property or injuries caused accidentally.
If you require extended protection – such as coverage for your partner, children, rental property, or pet liability – the price will be slightly higher. However, even comprehensive plans with wider coverage typically stay below €10 per month.
The exact premium also depends on the insurer's brand, service quality, and included benefits such as worldwide coverage or zero-deductible policies.
What Factors Influence the Price of Liability Insurance?
Several factors affect the monthly premium, including:
• Coverage limit (e.g. €5M vs €10M)
• Whether the policy covers family members
• Add-ons like pet or tenant liability
• The provider’s reputation and service level
Choosing a plan with higher coverage or broader protection will naturally raise the price, but most policies remain very affordable.
How to File a Liability Insurance Claim in Germany
If you’ve caused accidental damage and have liability insurance, it’s important to report the incident as soon as possible. Most insurers allow you to submit claims online, through their app, or by phone. Quick reporting increases the chance of smooth processing and prevents delays.
You should never try to fix or pay for damages privately if insurance is involved. Let your insurer handle the case to avoid legal or financial issues.
Steps to Report a Liability Claim
Here’s what to do when reporting a claim:
1. Notify your insurer immediately after the incident
2. Describe what happened in detail – including time, place, and persons involved
3. Take photos or gather evidence if applicable
4. Avoid admitting fault directly – let the insurer assess liability
5. Submit the claim via the provider’s preferred channel (web, app, phone)
Some insurers provide claim forms, while others guide you through the process interactively online.
Who to Contact and What Documents Are Required
You should first contact your insurance company directly – their contact info is usually listed on your policy or in the app. Some providers also assign dedicated agents for claims.
Required documents often include:
• A detailed incident report (written or via form)
• Photos or video of the damage
• Contact information of involved parties or witnesses
• Police report (if applicable)
• Your insurance policy number
The sooner you provide this information, the faster your claim can be assessed and resolved.
FAQs about Liability Insurance in Germany
Find answers to your questions about Fintiba liability insurance and its coverage.
How long does it take for the insurer to answer?
For damage reports, you can expect your message to be reviewed within 2 weeks after submission, whereas general questions are answered within a few working days.
Who is the insurer that issues the liability insurance?
The liability insurance is issued by Sparkassen-Versicherung Sachsen, represented by our partner IAS - Internationale Assekuranz-Service GmbH. IAS has over 30 years of experience and handles your contract and support.
What happens if I bought the insurance but cannot come to Germany?
If you cannot travel to Germany, simply contact Fintiba or our partner IAS, and we’ll help adjust your contract. Fintiba: support@fintiba.com. IAS: support@ias-bremen.de.
What are the requirements for taking out the liability insurance?
The only requirement is an international bank account number (IBAN) that allows SEPA direct debit.
What do I have to do after I signed up with Fintiba?
Signing up is simple. You purchase the product online, provide your start date, and agree to the terms. We handle the rest and will send you your insurance policy within a few days.
Are all damages I cause replaced?
No. The insurance covers damages to persons and objects, financial losses, rental property damages, and loss of keys. Damages caused intentionally or through gross negligence are not covered.
Which cases are regarded as “insurance cases”?
Your liability insurance protects you in two ways: it defends you against unjustified third-party claims, and it covers justified claims for damages up to the insured limits. Claims are considered justified if they are confirmed by law, court judgment, acknowledgement, or settlement. For instance, for accidentally injuring a pedestrian while cycling, medical and income loss are covered (minus the deductible amount). For spilling coffee on a friend’s laptop, if the laptop is below €100, you cover it yourself. Intentional damage is not covered.
Do I have to pay anything in case someone makes a claim?
Yes. For every justified claim, you contribute up to €100 per claim (your deductible). If the total damage is less than €100, you pay the full amount. If it’s higher, you only pay €100 and the insurance covers the rest.
How much do I have to pay for the insurance?
The annual premium is €55.00. This amount ensures strong coverage and peace of mind. However, keep in mind that for every claim there is also a €100 charge.
Is the insurance valid in other countries?
Yes. Your liability insurance is valid for short-term stays in most countries outside your home country. Please note: the coverage ends if you move your permanent residence outside Germany.
What happens if I forget to cancel the contract?
If you don’t cancel at least one month before the end of the contract, it will automatically renew for another year. However, if you return to your home country and won’t be coming back to Germany, you can end your contract early by contacting our partner IAS, based in Kleiner Ort 1, 28357 Bremen, via the telephone number at +49 421 20 232 0 or by emailing support@ias-bremen.de.
What is the maximum damage amount?
Your liability insurance covers you up to the following limits per event: Personal, property, and financial damages: €5,000,000; Rental property damages: €1,000,000; Loss of keys: €100,000; Protection against unjustified third-party claims; Deductible: €100 per claim.
I caused a damage. What do I have to do now?
If you cause damage, please report it immediately to schaden@ias-bremen.de. You and the other party will receive a short questionnaire to complete. Once both are submitted, the insurer reviews your case. If the claim is accepted, the damaged party is reimbursed (after you cover your deductible of €100 per incident).