July 5, 2026, 6:09 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Tenants have certain rights and obligations to uphold. When it comes to burglary protection, not everything that is technically possible is legally permissible. Landlords also have an interest in protecting the rented apartment or house as best as possible. myHOMEBOOK explains what is allowed in Germany and what tenants should be aware of in this article.
In rental agreements, there are specific regulations regarding burglary protection. The German Insurance Association (GDV) in Berlin generally recommends: “Mechanical protection of the apartment and house takes precedence over electronic protection through alarm systems. Initially, windows, terrace and balcony doors, and apartment entrance doors should be mechanically secured with additional bolts and locks.”
Follow myHOMEBOOK on WhatsApp now
Structural Changes Require Approval
Such mechanical protection is often associated with structural changes, for example, it may be necessary to drill into the apartment door to install a bar lock. “It should be noted that the installation of such devices may only be permissible with the appropriate consent of the owner or landlord if a structural change is necessary,” adds attorney Dennis Rehfeld, a specialist in tenancy law from Berlin, upon request from myHOMEBOOK.
Also interesting: Gaunerzinken – the meaning of burglars’ secret signs
“However, it should be permissible to replace the cylinder of the apartment door with a burglar-proof model at one’s own expense, provided that the door lock can be restored to its original state without damage at the end of the tenancy,” Rehfeld provides an example of a measure that enhances burglary protection and can be carried out by the tenant without the landlord’s approval.
In principle, a tenant has a legal claim against the landlord for a structural change if it serves burglary protection. This claim arises from Section 554 of the German Civil Code (BGB).
How to Tell if Your Door Is Burglar-Proof
Should You Leave the Shutters up or Close Them to Prevent Burglary?
Insurers Recommend Free Police Consultation
If such permission from the landlord or owner is granted, the GDV advises against taking action on your own. “A free consultation by the local police prevention service can be helpful in advance.” The nearest police consultation center in your area can be found on this website.
Smart burglary alarm systems in combination with smart home systems can also have a deterrent effect on burglars. “However, the installation should be carried out by a professional company, otherwise the false alarm rate and thus the credibility of the system suffer,” advises the GDV.
Conversely, an owner or landlord cannot simply install surveillance cameras, for example, in the entrance area. “This requires the consent of all tenants. In addition, relevant legal regulations must be observed, particularly data protection regulations and notification obligations,” emphasizes Dennis Rehfeld, a specialist in tenancy law from Berlin.
Household Insurance Covers Burglary
If the situation arises and burglars gain unauthorized access to your home despite protective measures, household insurance generally covers it. “Damages are reimbursed at replacement value. However, insurers may reduce benefits if damage was caused by grossly negligent behavior,” warns the GDV.
Classic examples of grossly negligent behavior include leaving a window ajar, a door that is only pulled shut, or a house key hidden in the garden or under the doormat.
“The degree of contributory negligence always depends on the exact circumstances. How long were you absent? At what time? And was anyone else in the house?” adds the GDV.
Upon request, the attribution of contributory negligence can be contractually excluded from the outset. “The contract can also include a so-called waiver of the defense of gross negligence. This means that the household insurer covers the costs of burglary damage, regardless of any contributory negligence by the insured,” the GDV points out as a possibility.