Your first flat. What you should check now.

First check what is already in place.

Moving out does not automatically mean that all your previous cover ends. Whether you are still insured under a family policy depends, among other things, on the contract, your training and your life situation. Have the insurer confirm the answer rather than taking out a second contract just in case.

• Do you have private liability insurance and are you covered under it?
• What are the consequences of moving out, finishing training or starting work?
• Do you have to report your new address or living situation?

Your belongings are not the building.

Household contents covers all movable items in your home. The landlord’s building insurance doesn’t automatically protect your furniture, clothing, or electronics.

Think about what it would cost to replace these things after a major loss. Whether home contents insurance suits your needs also depends on which expenses you could bear yourself.

Read the sections that matter for your flat.

For personal liability insurance, damage to rented property and lost keys can be relevant. For home contents, check the living space, valuables and any cover outside the home. A bicycle is not insured against every theft just because it belongs to your household.

• Which excess has been agreed?
• Are the details about your flat up to date?
• Which perils and items are expressly excluded?

Keep your documents where you can find them.

The policy document, terms and important endorsements belong together. Photos or receipts for valuable items can help with documentation. In the event of a claim, reporting obligations and deadlines apply; they are set out in your contract.