Heavy rain, floods or storms - these and other natural disasters can occur more and more frequently due to climate change. They can lead to damage to buildings, household goods or inventory. That is why the Bavarian state government is calling on private individuals and companies to take out comprehensive insurance against damage caused by natural hazards with its "Think ahead - insure for the elements" publicity campaign. This Internet portal provides information on the relevant measures.
The portal first provides an overview of the most important natural hazards that can occur in Bavaria - first and foremost flooding caused by high water and heavy rain. Floods occur, for example, as a result of continuous rain or snowmelt and lead to flooding that can cause personal injury and property damage. Damage caused by heavy rainfall events occurs when large amounts of precipitation fall within a short period of time and the water cannot seep away quickly enough. Heavy rainfall events are possible at any time throughout Bavaria and will occur more frequently in the future (as a result of climate change) according to scientific forecasts.
An information focus of the portal is on the topic of insurance. Here you will find information on how to insure residential buildings, apartments, business premises and operating equipment against natural hazards. You can also find out how a building can be insured against natural hazards.
Alongside this, the website highlights the biggest misconceptions that lead to many people not taking out natural hazard insurance. These include the assumption that one's own place of residence is not at risk or that damage caused by natural forces is automatically covered by household contents insurance.
The portal also provides information on precautionary measures that can be taken to protect against potential damage. Here you can download a flood protection primer, for example. In addition, you can find out what state benefits the Bavarian government is making available to help mitigate the effects of climate change and adapt as best as possible to unavoidable consequences. Also available on the website is the information sheet Natural Hazards, in which the Bavarian state government provides information about the end of state financial support in the form of emergency aid after natural disasters on July 1, 2019.
The website also provides links and contact points, including information on precautionary measures against floods and snow pressure, as well as information and warning services.
If you select a location under "Localization" the contact details of the responsible authority and, if applicable, locally valid information will be displayed.