Public adjusters in Germany: how the rules work

Germany has no "public adjuster" licence, but a Versicherungsberater (insurance adviser) can represent you out of court against your insurer, needs a permit from the local Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK), and may be paid only by you.

What the job is called here

The closest role is the "Versicherungsberater" (insurance adviser). It is set out in § 34d(2) of the Trade Regulation Act (Gewerbeordnung, GewO).

Who regulates it

The local Industrie- und Handelskammer (IHK) grants the permit. The Deutsche Industrie- und Handelskammer (DIHK) runs the Vermittlerregister, the public register.

Is a licence required

Yes. § 34d(2) GewO says a person who gives advice on insurance as a business needs a permit from the IHK. A Versicherungsberater is a person who has no economic benefit from, or other dependence on, an insurer, and who:

1. advises the client, also on legal points, on insurance contracts or on claims under a contract after an insured event,
2. represents the client out of court against the insurer, or
3. arranges insurance contracts for the client.

Fees

§ 34d(2) GewO says a Versicherungsberater may only be paid by the client. They must not accept payments from an insurer linked to the advice. The law text we read does not set a fee cap. Agree the fee in writing before you sign.

How to check a licence (official register link)

Search the DIHK Vermittlerregister. It lists Versicherungsvermittler, Versicherungsberater and some other financial intermediaries who need a permit. You can search by registration number or use the advanced search.

What to do if there is no regime

Germany has a regime for insurance advisers. If you have a dispute with your insurer, you can also contact the Versicherungsombudsmann. It says it is a recognised consumer dispute resolution body. It says its out-of-court dispute resolution is independent and free of charge.

This is general information, not legal advice; confirm the current rules with your local IHK.