We spend around 2,400 euros a year on insurance - sometimes unnecessarily. With so many policies out there, it is often difficult to keep track of them all. Expert Claudia Frenz also knows that the right insurance cover is essential.

Which one should everyone take out and why?
"We are obliged to have health insurance, as well as motor vehicle liability insurance. In some federal states, owners of certain dog breeds must take out pet owner's liability insurance. Personal liability insurance is not mandatory, but important for everyone, as you are liable for damage you cause to third parties with all your assets and income. For example, if you injure a person so seriously that you have to pay them a lifelong pension, this can lead to financial ruin. Occupational disability insurance is also important."

What should younger workers bear in mind?
"It is very important to take out occupational disability insurance at this age, as the amount payable increases considerably as you get older."

Which insurance policies make sense for couples?
"Couples living together only need one policy each for personal liability insurance and household contents insurance. Disability insurance is essential for both. Families should also take out term life insurance to protect each other and their children. If you have bought a property, homeowners' insurance is important. This is usually required by the banks anyway when taking out construction financing. If you want to protect your children from the consequences of an accident, you should take out accident insurance for them. It may also make sense to cover ongoing costs with an accident pension. Single parents should be covered in a similar way to families."

What should you consider early on for your future?
"As you get older, the issue of care comes to the fore. It's important to work out in good time whether your pension or assets are sufficient to pay for a carer or a place in a nursing home. With private supplementary care insurance, you can fill any gaps in your provision."

What else is particularly important for senior citizens?
"Even as a pensioner, it can make sense to take out accident insurance or maintain your existing insurance. This is because the consequences of an accident, such as having to adapt their home to meet their needs, have to be paid for by the person affected. Anyone who has acquired valuable items such as jewelry or antiques in the course of their life should check whether they are still adequately covered by household contents insurance or whether the compensation limit for valuables needs to be raised."

Taking out insurance - what should you generally look out for?
"Read the insurance conditions carefully and check whether the personally important risks are insured. Look through your insurance policies regularly and consider whether the cover still corresponds to your life situation. In the case of occupational disability and term life insurance, you must answer the health questions completely and truthfully. Here you should seek independent advice and ideally answer the questions together with your doctor."