Financing for security windows and doors: How to use loans, grants, and tax benefits in 2025
9 May 2025
8
Minutes
Katrin Straub
CEO at nextsure
Every six minutes a burglary occurs in Germany, yet almost half of the attempts are foiled by modern security technology. Investing in security windows and doors not only protects your property but also enhances your sense of security. We’ll show you how to strategically plan the financing for the installation of security windows and doors, saving you real money in the process.
The topic in brief and concise terms
The financing for security windows and doors is supported by the KfW loan 159 with up to 50,000 euros, provided the components meet at least resistance class RC2.
You can save up to 1,200 euros in taxes annually by deducting twenty percent of the labour costs for craftsmen (up to 6,000 euros).
Modern security technology not only prevents burglaries but can also lead to lower insurance premiums and protects against benefit reductions in cases of gross negligence.
Burglary Risk 2025: Why Upgrading Now Is Crucial
The police crime statistics recorded damage caused by burglaries amounting to approximately 340.6 million Euros for the past year. This figure highlights the financial dimension but neglects the emotional burden on those affected. A burglary in one’s own home is a severe breach of privacy. Fortunately, 45.7 percent of all burglary attempts were thwarted by existing security technology, demonstrating the effectiveness of protective measures. Investing in security is therefore a direct investment in your peace of mind and the protection of your family. The police recommend at least RC2 resistance class components for private households to give opportunistic burglars no chance. This upgrade is the first step towards a comprehensively protected home, whose financing we will explore below.
Secure Government Support: Use KfW Funds for Burglary Protection
A central pillar of financing for the installation of security windows and doors is the government subsidy. The Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau (KfW) supports your project with the programme 'Age-appropriate Conversion – Loan (159)'. Through this, you can obtain a low-interest loan of up to 50,000 euros per residential unit for burglary protection measures. While the direct grant (455-E) is no longer available, the loan still offers an attractive financing foundation. To receive the subsidy, certain technical standards must be met. One of the most important requirements is the installation of windows and doors that have been tested according to DIN EN 1627 and have at least resistance class RC2. Compliance with these standards must be confirmed by a specialist company. Careful planning and the correct application process are crucial for success. Find out about the benefits of a home savings contract to build equity. Next, we will look at how you can close financing gaps with other types of loans.
Closing funding gaps: Modernisation loans as a flexible alternative
The KfW funding does not always cover all costs or is the right option. This is where the modernisation loan for energy-efficient refurbishment comes into play. Banks often offer such loans up to an amount of 50,000 euros without the need for an expensive land register entry. This not only saves notary fees of one to two percent of the loan amount but also significantly speeds up the disbursement. The interest rates for these purpose-tied loans are usually more favourable than those for a loan with no specific purpose. An example calculation: For security windows worth 15,000 euros, you could achieve a monthly installment of under 300 euros over a term of five years. These loans are ideal for strategically investing in the security and value of your property. To make the right choice, you should carefully compare the conditions of different providers. However, financing is only one part of the equation; tax advantages can also significantly reduce the financial burden.
Reduce tax burden: Deduct craftsman costs for security technology
An oft overlooked way to reduce costs is the tax bonus for artisan services according to § 35a EStG. You can deduct twenty percent of the incurred labour, travel, and machinery costs from your tax liability. The maximum deductible amount for costs is 6,000 euros per year, which equates to a tax saving of up to 1,200 euros. It's important to follow the correct procedure:
Make sure you receive an invoice that separately lists labour and material costs.
Never pay the invoice in cash, but always by bank transfer.
Include the expenses in your annual income tax return.
Note: Material costs are explicitly excluded from this regulation. Also, note that you cannot take advantage of this tax benefit if the measure has already been funded through a KfW loan. Once the financing is in place, it is important to understand the impact on your insurance coverage.
Optimising Insurance Coverage: How New Windows Affect Your Policy
The installation of certified security technology is not only a preventive measure, but can also positively impact your household and building insurance. Some insurers reward the enhanced protection with premium discounts of five to ten percent. However, much more important is the avoidance of benefit reductions in the event of damage. If a burglar gains access through an open window, the insurance may deem this as gross negligence and refuse payment. Modern RC2 windows with lockable handles significantly reduce this risk. In the event of a burglary, household insurance replaces the new value of stolen or damaged items. Therefore, document valuable possessions and keep invoices. Comprehensive protection thus arises from the combination of mechanical security and suitable insurance coverage. To select the right components, it is essential to look at the details of the resistance classes.
Making the Right Choice: A Guide to RC2 Security Standards
The resistance class RC2 is the minimum requirement recommended by the police for windows and doors in private areas. But what does that mean in concrete terms? A component of class RC2 withstands the attack of an opportunist with simple tools like screwdrivers, pliers, or wedges for at least three minutes. This may sound short, but most burglars give up if they are not successful within one to two minutes. A typical RC2 configuration includes:
Mushroom-headed locking pins that make prying open more difficult.
A lockable window handle with anti-drill protection.
Laminated safety glass (VSG), which does not shatter upon breaking.
Professional installation that securely anchors the component in the masonry.
When purchasing, ensure you look for an official certificate confirming the RC2 classification. This investment in certified quality forms the foundation for effective protection and is a prerequisite for government grants. With this knowledge, you can now take the final step and request an individual analysis of your situation.
Request a personalised risk analysis now
Securing your home is a very personal decision that must be tailored to your individual living situation and needs. There is no one-size-fits-all solution. At nextsure, we understand this. Our mission is to offer you customised and easy-to-understand insurance solutions. Have your insurance situation reviewed for free and receive specific suggestions for optimisation that are aligned with your new security measures.
More useful links
Die KfW offers comprehensive information on funding burglary protection measures in existing properties for private individuals.
The funding product “Altersgerecht Umbauen (159)” from KfW supports you with measures to improve security in existing properties.
The K-Einbruch initiative provides safety tips and information on funding burglary protection measures.
K-Einbruch offers detailed expert information and studies, including the Police Crime Statistics (PKS) on the subject of burglary.
The consumer advice centre provides information on planning comfortable and burglar-proof windows as part of energy renovation.
Comprehensive information on the subject of burglary protection can be found on the pages of the consumer advice centre.
The VLH (Vereinigte Lohnsteuerhilfe e.V.) explains how you can deduct burglary protection measures for tax purposes.
The Wikipedia article on burglary protection offers a general overview of the topic and relevant aspects.
FAQ
How do I apply for the KfW loan for burglary protection?
The application for the KfW loan 159 must be submitted through a financing partner (e.g., your bank) before construction work begins. You will need an offer from a specialist company confirming compliance with the technical minimum requirements (such as RC2).
Is a modernization loan worthwhile for just a few windows?
Yes, a modernisation loan can also be worthwhile for smaller projects. Many banks offer these loans starting from just a few thousand euros and often waive the costly land registry entry for amounts under 50,000 euros, simplifying and speeding up the process.
What is the difference between RC2 and RC2 N?
The main difference lies in the glazing. While RC2 requires a specific security glazing (P4A glass), there are no specifications for the glass in class RC2 N. Therefore, RC2 offers a higher overall protection, as the glass is also more durable.
Can I combine tax benefits with KfW funding?
No, double funding for the same measure is excluded. If you take out a KfW loan for the installation of your security windows, you cannot additionally claim the associated craftsmen's costs in your tax return.
Do I need to ask my landlord for permission to install security technology?
Yes, as a tenant, you must obtain your landlord's permission before installing new windows or doors, as this constitutes a structural alteration to the rental property. Smaller upgrades like crossbar locks are often easier to agree upon.
How do I recognize a certified RC2 window?
Look for a test certificate or a certification from an accredited testing center (e.g., PIV Cert). The window itself should be marked with the manufacturer's details, resistance class (RC2), standard (DIN EN 1627), and the testing institute.
