When living in Germany, one of the most important policies you can buy is private liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung). Unlike car insurance, it’s not legally mandatory, but nearly everyone has it — from students and freelancers to families and expats. Why? Because liability claims in Germany can be financially devastating, and Haftpflichtversicherung covers you if you cause damage to people, property, or belongings. The good news: premiums are surprisingly cheap, often less than €5–10 per month.
This guide will cover the best liability insurance options in Germany in 2025, including costs, coverage levels, user ratings, and what to watch for when choosing the right policy.
Why Liability Insurance Matters in Germany
- Legal liability is unlimited: If you accidentally injure someone or damage property, you’re personally liable without limit under German law.
- Affordable protection: Most policies start at under €60 per year.
- Coverage for everyday risks: Dropping someone’s phone, damaging a rental apartment, or your child breaking a neighbor’s window.
Common features to check:
- Deckungssumme (coverage amount): Experts recommend at least €20–50 million.
- Selbstbeteiligung (excess): Some plans have a deductible, others don’t.
- Extras: Rental damage, key loss (Schlüsselverlust), coverage abroad, pet liability, or English-language support.
Top 5 Liability Insurance Providers in Germany (2025)
Here are five standout options based on cost, coverage, and user experience.
1. Getsafe Haftpflichtversicherung
- Coverage: Up to €50 million
- Special Features: App-based, instant sign-up, English support
- Extras: Rental damage, key loss, damage abroad
- Cost: From €4.50/month
- Why it’s great: Getsafe is popular among expats and digital nomads for its fully digital experience and English app. Coverage is broad, making it hassle-free for newcomers.
2. Feather Liability Insurance
- Coverage: Up to €50 million
- Special Features: 100% English service, designed for expats
- Extras: Rental property damage, key loss, coverage abroad
- Cost: From €5.00/month
- Why it’s great: Tailored for non-German speakers. Feather is easy to set up online and explains everything clearly in English.
3. Helden Haftpflichtversicherung
- Coverage: Up to €50 million
- Special Features: “All-in-one” policy, flat rate
- Extras: Includes family coverage, pet damage, and key loss
- Cost: €72/year (flat rate, covers multiple risks)
- Why it’s great: A flat annual fee makes it simple. Often recommended by Stiftung Warentest for transparency.
4. Axa / Allianz (Traditional Insurers)
- Coverage: Up to €50 million
- Special Features: Strong network, in-person support
- Extras: Can bundle with other policies (e.g., household contents)
- Cost: €6–10/month depending on package
- Why it’s great: Well-suited for families who prefer established providers with local agents.
5. Hiscox (Specialist Coverage)
- Coverage: Up to €50 million
- Special Features: Professional liability add-ons for freelancers/self-employed
- Extras: High flexibility, tailored for niche needs
- Cost: From €8/month
- Why it’s great: Ideal for freelancers or business owners who may also need professional liability alongside private cover.
Comparison Table: Top Liability Insurance in
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Coverage (Deckungssumme)
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Key Features
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Cost (approx.)
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Costs: How Much Does Liability Insurance Cost in 2025?
- Students: Often under €3–4 per month (sometimes discounted via student plans).
- Singles: Around €5–7 per month for strong coverage.
- Families: €8–12 per month for a policy covering spouse + children.
👉 Average: €60–120 per year for robust coverage.
What to Watch Out For
- Coverage limits: Aim for at least €20M, ideally €50M.
- Family inclusion: Ensure spouse and children are covered.
- Rental damage: Important for tenants — covers damage to landlord’s property.
- Key loss: Some policies cover losing expensive apartment keys.
- English service: If you’re not fluent in German, providers like Getsafe or Feather are highly recommended.
Common Questions (FAQs)
1. Is private liability insurance mandatory in Germany?
No, it’s not legally required, but strongly recommended. Over 80% of households have one.
2. How much coverage do I need — €10M vs €50M?
Experts suggest at least €20M, but modern policies usually start at €50M — so go with the higher protection.
3. Does liability insurance cover rental damage?
Yes, most policies include damage to rental apartments, but check for exclusions (e.g., wear-and-tear is not covered).
4. Does liability insurance cover key loss in Germany?
Yes, but not all plans. Check if Schlüsselverlust (lost keys) is explicitly included.
5. Can children be included for free?
Yes, most family policies automatically cover children living in the same household.
6. Haftpflicht vs. dog liability insurance — what’s the difference?
Regular Haftpflicht doesn’t cover pets. Hundehaftpflicht (dog liability insurance) is mandatory in many German states if you own a dog.
Conclusion: Which Haftpflicht Should You Choose?
- For expats/students → Getsafe or Feather (simple English setup)
- For families → Helden or Allianz (family-inclusive plans)
- For freelancers → Hiscox (can combine with professional liability)
The key is not whether to get liability insurance, but which provider fits your lifestyle. With premiums as low as €5 per month, skipping Haftpflicht is one of the most expensive mistakes you could make in Germany.
