| Scenario | Who owns the furniture | Who insures | Insurance type | Cost covered by |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Furnished flat from landlord | Landlord | Landlord | Rental property insurance | Rent or separately |
| Tenant's own furniture | Tenant | Tenant | Home insurance | Tenant |
| Mixed furnishing (both) | Both parties | Both parties | Two insurance policies | Each party for their own |
| Unfurnished flat | Tenant | Tenant | Home insurance | Tenant |
The landlord is not obliged to insure furniture that the tenant owns
The landlord is not legally required to insure furniture that the tenant owns and brings into the flat. Insuring furniture is the tenant's own responsibility. The landlord may, however, choose to insure furniture that belongs to the flat itself — furniture that is part of the rental — but this is optional and is regulated through the landlord's own home insurance or rental property insurance, not through the rental agreement.
What does the law say about furniture in rental properties?
Instead, it is the agreement between the parties that determines what is included in the rental. If the landlord offers a furnished flat, it must be clearly stated which furniture belongs to the flat and which the tenant is expected to bring with them.
The tenant is responsible for insuring their own furniture through home insurance. This insurance covers damage to furniture from fire, burglary, theft and other insured risks.
Furnished rental — the landlord's responsibility
When a flat is offered furnished, the landlord owns the furniture and is therefore also responsible for insuring it. The landlord can then:
- Take out rental property insurance that covers furniture and fittings
- Include the insurance cost in the rent
- Require a higher deposit to cover the risk of damage to furniture
The tenant is still responsible for not damaging the furniture through negligence or misuse. If the tenant causes damage beyond normal wear and tear, the landlord can deduct the cost from the deposit.
Furniture that the tenant owns — the tenant's insurance
If the tenant brings their own furniture into the flat, whether it is furnished or unfurnished, it is the tenant who must insure it. Standard home insurance covers:
- Furniture and fittings
- Electronics and appliances that the tenant owns
- Personal belongings
Home insurance applies whether the flat is furnished or not. The landlord is not responsible for damage to the tenant's own furniture.
Comparison: Who insures what?
What does it cost to insure furniture in a rental property?
The landlord can choose between different insurance solutions. Rental property insurance for furniture costs varying amounts depending on the value of the furniture and the insurance company. The cost can:
- Be added to the rent as an insurance component
- Be paid separately by the landlord
- Be shared between the parties according to the agreement
The tenant's home insurance for their own furniture is often cheaper than separate rental property insurance.
Checklist for the landlord: Furniture and insurance
- Determine which furniture is included — Make an inventory list of all furniture that belongs to the flat
- Take out rental property insurance — Contact insurance companies and get a quote for furniture and fittings
- Document the condition of the furniture — Take photographs at move-in and move-out
- Inform the tenant in writing — Clarify in the rental agreement which furniture is included and what the landlord insures
- Set requirements for care — Explain that the tenant is responsible for normal care and that damage can be deducted from the deposit
- Update the insurance — If furniture is replaced or added, update the insurance
- Inspect when changing tenants — Document the condition of the furniture for the next tenant
Checklist for the tenant: Own furniture and insurance
- Take out home insurance — Contact an insurance company before you move in
- Declare your furniture — State the value of furniture and fittings to the insurance company
- Keep receipts — Keep purchase receipts for more expensive furniture and electronics
- Photograph the furniture — Document your furniture at move-in
- Read the agreement carefully — Check which furniture belongs to the flat and which you must look after yourself
- Report damage quickly — If something is damaged, report it to the insurance company immediately
- Update the insurance — If you buy new furniture, update the insurance value
Frequently asked questions
Can the landlord require me to insure the furniture that is included in the flat?
No. If the furniture belongs to the flat and is part of the rental, it is the landlord's responsibility to insure it. The landlord cannot pass this cost on to the tenant by requiring the tenant to take out insurance.
What happens if the furniture is damaged and the landlord does not have insurance?
If the landlord has not insured the furniture and it is damaged, the landlord must bear the cost of repair or replacement themselves. The landlord cannot automatically deduct the cost from the deposit unless the damage was caused by the tenant.
Can I bring my own furniture even if the flat is furnished?
Yes, you can bring your own furniture. You are then responsible for insuring it through your own home insurance. The furniture that belongs to the flat is insured by the landlord.
What is included in home insurance for the tenant?
Home insurance covers your own furniture, electronics, clothes and personal belongings. It also covers damage from fire, burglary, theft, water damage and other insured risks. Read the insurance terms carefully to know exactly what is covered.
Related articles
- What does it cost to insure yourself when renting out a flat?
- Home insurance when renting out: Everything you need to know (Guide 2026)
- Can you deduct furniture purchases from tax when renting out?
- Can you charge a higher deposit for furnished rental?
- What can the landlord deduct from the deposit?
This text is general information and does not replace legal advice.
