June 16, 2023, 8:37 am | Read time: 2 minutes
In Germany, reports of heat pump thefts are currently on the rise. The consumer center is now warning homeowners–because in case of doubt, they are left with the damage.
Energy is becoming increasingly expensive, and old oil and gas heating systems are gradually becoming obsolete–which is why more and more homeowners are opting for a heat pump. According to Statista, around 236,000 heat pumps were sold in Germany last year alone–and the trend is rising. However, these expensive heating systems are apparently also attracting criminals. There are repeated instances of heat pump thefts. The Schleswig-Holstein Consumer Center is therefore now urging homeowners to review their insurance.
Homeowners Insurance is Crucial
A heat pump is an expensive investment. Depending on the type, costs can range from 8,000 to 16,000 euros. Depending on where the energy is sourced, the heat pump is installed inside the house or outside. The latter is the case for air-water heat pumps.
And this point is crucial–the location. Depending on where the heat pump is located, the insurance will cover it in the event of theft. According to Dennis Hardtke, an insurance expert at the Schleswig-Holstein Consumer Center, systems installed outside the building are not automatically included in homeowners insurance.
Therefore, the expert advises contacting the insurance company early if you plan to purchase a heat pump. This way, you can check the extent of the insurance coverage and what is covered in the event of theft. If the heat pump outside the building is not insured, then homeowners are left with the damage.
Read more: The 5 Most Important Insurances for Homeowners
What to Consider for Heat Pump Insurance
If homeowners notice that their heat pump is not covered by homeowners insurance, they should definitely have the coverage added. The consumer center recommends getting the insurance coverage confirmed in writing.
Insurance expert Hardtke also points out that one should check the so-called duty to cooperate. This involves measures that the policyholder must take to minimize the damage, the expert explains. If these duties are violated, the insurance can refuse parts or the entire benefit.
Possible duties to cooperate for a heat pump could include fencing the property or directly enclosing the heating system. Installing it at a hard-to-reach height, such as on the house wall, could also be a requirement.