Hausratversicherung in Germany: Contents Insurance Guide for Expats (2026)
Your landlord insures the building. Nobody insures your stuff inside it — unless you do. Hausratversicherung (household contents insurance) covers everything you own inside your apartment: furniture, electronics, clothing, bicycle and more. It is one of the most important and most affordable insurances in Germany, yet many expats skip it entirely until something goes wrong.
What Is Hausratversicherung?
Hausratversicherung translates literally as “household contents insurance.” It covers the value of everything inside your rented or owned home against damage or loss caused by:
- Burglary and theft (Einbruchdiebstahl)
- Fire and smoke damage (Brand)
- Water damage from burst pipes (Leitungswasser)
- Storm and hail (Sturm/Hagel)
- Vandalism
- Lightning strikes
Hausratversicherung vs Haftpflichtversicherung — What’s the Difference?
These two insurances are often confused but cover completely different things:
| Insurance | What It Covers | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Hausratversicherung | Your own belongings damaged or stolen | Your laptop stolen in a break-in |
| Haftpflichtversicherung | Damage you accidentally cause to others | You spill water on a neighbour’s carpet |
Most expats in Germany should have both. We cover Haftpflichtversicherung separately in our liability insurance guide.
What Does Hausratversicherung Cover?
Included in standard policies:
- Furniture, appliances and electronics
- Clothing and personal belongings
- Cash up to a certain limit (usually €500–1,000)
- Bicycle theft (sometimes needs to be added as extra)
- Valuables like jewellery (up to policy limits)
Usually NOT covered:
- Damage you cause yourself (that’s Haftpflicht)
- Car theft (that’s separate car insurance)
- Items stolen from your car
- Flooding from external water sources (needs separate Elementarschadenversicherung)
How Much Does Hausratversicherung Cost in Germany?
For most expats renting a 1–2 room apartment, expect to pay €3–10 per month (€36–120 per year). The premium depends on:
- Apartment size (m²)
- Postcode (risk area for burglary)
- Sum insured (Versicherungssumme) — typically calculated at €650–700 per m²
- Optional extras (bicycle, valuables, etc.)
Best Hausratversicherung Providers for Expats (2026)
| Provider | Monthly Cost* | Bicycle Theft | Online Sign-up | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HUK-COBURG | From €3/mo | Add-on available | ✅ | Best value overall |
| ERGO | From €4/mo | Included in premium | ✅ | Good all-rounder |
| Allianz | From €6/mo | Included in premium | ✅ | Premium coverage |
| AXA | From €5/mo | Add-on available | ✅ | Flexible policies |
| R+V | From €4/mo | Add-on available | ✅ | Cooperative bank customers |
*Prices for a 50m² apartment in a medium-risk postcode. Use a comparison tool for your exact address and circumstances.
Compare Hausratversicherung Rates in 2 Minutes
Enter your postcode and apartment size to see all available rates — free comparison, no commitment.
How to Get Hausratversicherung as an Expat
- Calculate your sum insured — multiply your apartment size in m² by €650. For a 60m² flat: 60 × €650 = €39,000 insured value.
- Compare online — use a comparison tool with your postcode and apartment size
- Sign up online — most providers have English-friendly online forms. You need your address, apartment size and IBAN.
- Policy starts immediately — you receive your policy document (Versicherungsschein) by email
Do You Need Hausratversicherung in Germany?
It is not legally required — but it is strongly recommended. A single burglary, kitchen fire or burst pipe can easily cause €5,000–20,000 in losses. At €5/month, Hausratversicherung is one of the best-value insurances you can have.
Some landlords specifically ask for proof of Hausratversicherung in the rental application process, particularly in competitive cities like Munich or Frankfurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Hausratversicherung mandatory in Germany?
No, Hausratversicherung is not legally required in Germany. However, it is strongly recommended given how affordable it is and how significant the financial loss can be from theft, fire or water damage. Some landlords may request it as part of the rental application.
Does Hausratversicherung cover my bicycle?
Many policies include bicycle theft as a standard benefit or as an affordable add-on (Fahrraddiebstahl-Zusatz). However, there is usually a condition that the bicycle must be locked with a certified lock (Sicherheitsschloss). Check your policy terms carefully.
What is the difference between Hausratversicherung and Gebäudeversicherung?
Hausratversicherung covers your personal belongings inside the apartment (furniture, electronics, clothing). Gebäudeversicherung (building insurance) covers the physical structure of the building — walls, roof, windows, fixed fittings. As a renter, you only need Hausratversicherung. Building insurance is the landlord’s responsibility.
Can I get Hausratversicherung if I am not a German citizen?
Yes. Your citizenship or visa type has no impact on your ability to take out Hausratversicherung. As long as you have a registered address in Germany (Anmeldung) and a German bank account for direct debit, any provider will insure you.
What should I do if I need to make a claim?
Contact your insurer immediately (most have 24-hour hotlines). For burglary, you must also file a police report (Anzeige) — your insurer will require the police report number. Document all damaged or stolen items with photos and receipts where possible.
