What is home contents insurance (Hausratversicherung)?

Home contents insurance covers the movable belongings inside your home—everything you would take with you if you moved. It compensates you (depending on the policy) when items are damaged, destroyed, or stolen due to covered events. The main goal is to fund repair or replacement so you don’t face major out-of-pocket losses.

What items are usually covered?

• Furniture and furnishings

• Electronics and appliances (TV, laptop/PC, fridge, etc.)

• Clothing and personal items

• Jewelry and valuables (often with limits unless you add extra cover)

• Household goods, books, collections, personal belongings

What risks are covered?

• Fire, explosion, lightning

• Burglary/theft and often vandalism after break-in

• Storm/hail (depending on the policy)

• Escape of water from pipes (burst pipe, leaks)

• Flooding/natural hazards often require an add-on such as Elementarschutz (policy-dependent).

How are premiums calculated?
Premiums typically depend on:

• the insured sum (total value of your contents)

• location and risk level

• apartment size (many insurers use a per-m² model)

• chosen add-ons and deductibles

How do you set the right insured sum?

• Estimate the replacement value of your belongings at today’s prices.

• Many insurers offer online calculators or per-m² guidelines.

• Avoid underinsurance: if the sum is too low, payouts can be reduced.

Does it cover belongings outside your home?
Some policies include “outside the home” protection (temporary storage, moving/transport, travel items), but this varies widely—always check the contract details.

Tips for choosing the right policy

• Choose a sum high enough to avoid underinsurance.

• Check rules for valuables (cash, jewelry, high-end electronics).

• Review exclusions, especially for natural hazards and gross negligence.

• Compare offers on comparison portals—but also consider service and claims handling.

• Read renewal and cancellation terms carefully.

What to do if an incident happens

• Report the claim quickly; contact the police in case of theft/burglary.

• Document everything: photos/videos and an itemized list.

• Keep receipts, warranties, photos, and serial numbers.

• Follow the insurer’s process to speed up compensation.

Conclusion
Hausratversicherung is a practical way to protect your household belongings in Germany against major risks like fire, burglary, escape of water, and storm damage. With a correct insured sum and the right add-ons, it helps ensure fair compensation when you need it most.

Editorial note
The site’s writers and editors strive to provide accurate information through extensive research and by consulting multiple sources. However, occasional errors may occur or some information may be unconfirmed. Please treat this as initial guidance and consult the relevant authorities for verified information.