Heat pump theft: Why insurance often doesn't pay - a financial expert explains

Heat pump theft: Why insurance often doesn't pay - a financial expert explains

According to a report from www.fr.de, heat pump thefts are increasing in Germany. The outdoor units of air-water heat pumps are particularly affected. The damage often amounts to a five-digit euro amount. However, many insurance companies refuse to pay the damage. The increased demand for heat pumps and the rising costs of heating systems have apparently led to thieves increasingly relying on theft of heat pumps.

In addition to stolen heat pumps, solar modules are also increasingly being targeted by raiders. Given the high costs of these environmentally friendly energy systems, it is advisable to find out about insurance options in good time. In many cases, heat pumps are only insured if they are explicitly included in the building insurance policy.

The increased theft of heat pumps has also been observed in shell buildings in various regions of Germany. For example, heating devices worth 50,000 euros were stolen in Burgoberbach in Middle Franconia in April. The perpetrators probably use trailers or larger vehicles to transport the stolen goods.

The consequences of these thefts can be significant for the market and consumers. On the one hand, consumers' trust in the safety and security of heat pumps is shaken because insurance companies do not always cover the damage. This can cause potential buyers to shy away from purchasing a heat pump or to look for alternative heating systems.

On the other hand, the increased theft of heat pumps can impact the market for insurance companies. It is possible that insurance companies will reconsider their conditions for insuring heat pumps and adjust their premiums accordingly. This can result in higher costs for consumers who want to have their heat pump insured.

It is advisable that consumers who own a heat pump or plan to purchase one check whether their heat pump is included in their building insurance policy. If not, you should contact your insurance company and have the heat pump added later to protect yourself against theft.