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Fight for the camera: AK forces insurance to cover the costs!
An Upper Austrian successfully fought against the rejection of his device insurance due to moisture damage to his camera.
Fight for the camera: AK forces insurance to cover the costs!
An Upper Austrian from the Urfahr-Raum district had a problem with his newly purchased digital camera at Christmas 2024. Despite the battery being full, the device suddenly no longer turned on. It was only when Media Markt assessed the damage that it became apparent that there was moisture damage. The man had used the camera properly, for example while hiking and during family celebrations. Nevertheless, the responsible ERGO insurance company refused to cover the repair costs, citing an alleged breach of duty. However, the consumer was unable to explain the cause of the damage, which led to the insurance being rejected. This reported today.at.
The Upper Austrian Chamber of Labor intervened in this case and explained that the moisture damage was clearly defined as an insured event in the insurance conditions. The consumer turned to the AK, which represented his rights and ultimately hired a lawyer. “The camera had been used correctly and it was unfair to refuse to repair it,” said a spokesman for the Chamber of Labor. After filing a lawsuit with the Linz district court, ERGO Insurance gave in and covered the repair costs of 329 euros.
Growing Complaints About Device Insurance
More and more consumers in Upper Austria are contacting the Chamber of Labor because their equipment insurance companies are refusing benefits in the event of damage. The reasons given by insurers are often difficult to understand and lead to great uncertainty among customers. Especially in the case of moisture damage, it is often difficult to understand the exact circumstances that led to the damage. It is advisable to think carefully about whether it makes sense to take out equipment insurance, as the costs often outweigh the benefits.
The Chamber of Labor supports consumers who are confronted with rejected services and recommends that, before taking out equipment insurance, they carefully check what damage is covered and what obligations the policyholder must comply with. As the case of the Upper Austrian shows, problems can arise in an emergency if the insurance company refuses to provide benefits. ooe.arbeiterkammer.at offers further information and support.