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Insurance not paying? How to fight the refusal

Damage occurred, but the insurance does not want to pay or cuts the benefit? A refusal is not the last word. Often a factual, well-reasoned objection already helps, and there is a free conciliation body.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

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Your chances of getting your money back

The insurance must justify a refusal in an understandable way. Refusals can often be cleared up with the right arguments and evidence.
The insurance ombudsman mediates free of charge. Up to a certain amount, its decisions are even binding on the insurance.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Have the refusal justified in writing

    Demand the exact justification and the passage in the terms on which the insurance relies.

  2. 2

    2. Object factually

    Object in writing with a deadline and present evidence (photos, expert reports, certificates) that supports your claim.

  3. 3

    3. Involve the ombudsman

    If that does not help, turn to the competent insurance ombudsman (free of charge); this is often faster and cheaper than a lawsuit.

  4. 4

    4. Keep deadlines in view

    Watch for lawsuit or exclusion deadlines in the insurance terms. When in doubt, get advice in time.

Frequently asked questions

Is it worth objecting to the insurance?

Often yes. Many refusals rest on a one-sided interpretation or missing documents. A factual objection backed with evidence, and if necessary the ombudsman, often leads to success.

What does the insurance ombudsman cost?

For you as the insured, the conciliation procedure is free of charge. Up to a certain dispute-value limit, the ruling is binding on the insurance but not on you; you keep the option to sue.

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.