Underinsurance of household contents: the expensive trap
A nasty surprise in the event of a claim: the household contents insurance pays only part because of underinsurance. This happens when the sum insured is lower than the actual value of your household contents. With the right agreement, this can be avoided.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Clarify your question →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Determine the value
Estimate the replacement value of all your household contents realistically.
- 2
2. Compare the sum
Is the sum insured below it? Then underinsurance threatens.
- 3
3. Agree a waiver of the underinsurance objection
Agree the sum based on the square-meter flat rate with a waiver of the underinsurance objection.
- 4
4. Adjust regularly
Review the sum insured again after larger purchases.
Frequently asked questions
What does underinsurance of household contents mean?
It exists when the agreed sum insured is lower than the actual replacement value of all your household contents. In the event of a claim, the insurer may then reduce the payout proportionally in the ratio of the sum insured to the actual value, and this applies even for a partial loss. In an emergency this can get expensive.
How do I avoid underinsurance?
Best of all through a waiver of the underinsurance objection: if the sum insured is set based on a flat rate per square meter of living space, the insurer waives the underinsurance objection and does not reduce the payout proportionally in a claim. Also review the sum after larger purchases so that the coverage stays up to date.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.