Risk of Forest Fires Is Increasing:
Now Is the Time to Review Insurance Coverage for Woodland
Prolonged periods of drought and increasingly frequent heatwaves are also raising the risk of forest fires in Germany. According to the latest forest fire statistics, 1,175 forest fires were recorded nationwide in 2025, affecting approximately 2,626 hectares of woodland – significantly more than the long-term average.
Private woodland owners are not the only ones affected. awmill operators, forestry businesses and companies that own woodland or forestry areas should also review their insurance coverage. In the event of a loss, the financial consequences can extend well beyond the loss of the trees themselves. Significant additional costs may arise, including firefighting expenses, salvage and debris removal, as well as reforestation costs.
Forest Fire Damage Is Not Automatically Covered.
Damage to woodland is not automatically covered by standard property insurance. Separate forest fire or forestry insurance should therefore be considered for woodland and forestry areas.
Depending on the insurance policy, coverage may include the following risks and costs:
- Forest fires
- Lightning strikes
- Storm and hail damage
- Firefighting costs
- Clean-up and debris removal costs
- Reforestation costs
Insurance coverage is available at comparatively manageable premiums. Premiums are calculated based on factors such as the location of the woodland, tree species, size of the area, insured value and the desired scope of coverage.
Indicative examples:
- Woodland up to 5 hectares: from approx. €117 gross per year
- Woodland up to 10 hectares: from approx. €192 gross per year
Given the increasing frequency of prolonged dry periods and extreme weather events, woodland owners, forestry businesses and companies with their own woodland are advised to review their existing insurance coverage regularly.
As an independent insurance broker, we assist our clients in selecting suitable insurance solutions for woodland and forestry areas. This also includes reviewing existing policies.
We would be pleased to review your current insurance coverage for potential gaps in protection, insufficient sums insured and missing cost components. If you do not yet have insurance coverage for your woodland, we can advise you on the level and type of protection appropriate for your property.