Essential Actions and Insurance Insights for Post-Storm Recovery

Heavy rainfall and flooding can cause significant damage to homes. Surprisingly, only 54% of German homeowners have natural disaster insurance.

State flood protection programs are available to help homeowners in high-risk areas. It's crucial for homeowners’ associations to review their building insurance regularly, as natural disasters are often not automatically covered.

Tenants must inform landlords about any damage and report blocked balcony drains. For severe damage, rental agreements can be terminated without notice and rent reduced.

Insurance claims require a detailed list of damages, supported by photos and invoices. After water ingress, disconnect electrical appliances, seal damaged windows and roofs, and pump out flooded rooms promptly.

Families should create emergency plans, store important documents and valuables safely, and alert emergency services if needed. Additionally, household and building insurance policies must be updated to cover natural disasters to ensure comprehensive protection.