Break-Ins in Germany Remain High and Damage Costs Rise Sharply

One Burglary Every Six Minutes

Newly released data from the German Insurance Association (GDV) reveals that home burglaries in Germany remain alarmingly frequent. In 2024 alone, around 90,000 break-ins were reported to insurers—matching the previous year’s total. This means that, statistically, a burglary occurs every six minutes somewhere in the country.

Despite the number of incidents holding steady, the financial damage per burglary has increased. The average cost per break-in rose from €3,600 in 2023 to €3,800 in 2024, a six percent jump. Total insurance payouts for burglary-related damages climbed by €20 million to reach €350 million for the year.

Electronics Remain Top Targets

Thieves continue to focus on high-value, easily sellable items. According to GDV Deputy Managing Director Anja Käfer-Rohrbach, burglars primarily steal electronics such as smartphones, cameras, and computers. These items are not only valuable but also compact, making them ideal for quick resale.

This trend toward targeting portable electronics is one of the key factors behind the rising average damage per burglary. As these devices become more advanced and expensive, the financial losses from even a single break-in can be substantial.

Long-Term Trends Since 2015

While current figures remain concerning, they also reflect a broader shift in crime patterns over the last decade. In 2015, the number of reported burglaries reached more than 180,000. That figure has since dropped by half, with the steepest decline occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, the number fell to 80,000, followed by 70,000 in 2021. The annual totals have increased each year since, but now appear to be stabilizing around 90,000 cases.

The decline during the pandemic was likely due to more people staying at home, making it harder for burglars to operate undetected. As public life returned to normal, the number of burglaries began rising again, albeit without reaching pre-pandemic levels.

Prevention Measures Still Underused

The GDV continues to emphasize the importance of home security and proactive prevention. The association recommends the installation of high-quality locks, such as crossbar bolts on entry doors. In addition, simple technologies like motion-sensitive outdoor lighting can make properties less appealing to criminals.

Alarm systems also provide an effective second line of defense. These systems not only alert occupants and law enforcement but may also deter burglars from attempting to break in at all. Käfer-Rohrbach added that increasing a home’s visibility and working with watchful neighbors can further reduce the risk.

For homeowners and tenants alike, proper documentation of valuables is another crucial step. Storing receipts and photographs of valuable items can speed up claims processes and improve the chances of recovering stolen goods.

Emotional Toll Beyond Financial Loss

Beyond the material damage, break-ins often leave psychological scars. Victims frequently report a lasting sense of vulnerability and discomfort in their own homes. The emotional aftermath can affect daily routines and create a long-term sense of insecurity.

Security professionals stress that while financial losses are significant, the emotional impact should not be underestimated. Many people struggle to feel safe in their homes after a burglary, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

Urban and Youth Trends Raise New Concerns

In some cities, especially in urban areas like Berlin, law enforcement has observed emerging patterns in criminal behavior. Police have recently reported cases involving youth gangs breaking into mobile phone stores and broadcasting the crimes live on social media platforms. Authorities are calling this a troubling trend that combines organized theft with online performance, further complicating enforcement and prevention efforts.

This development illustrates how crime can evolve alongside technology and social behavior. It highlights the need for updated prevention strategies and stronger cooperation between law enforcement, tech platforms, and local communities.