Note: This article does not constitute legal advice. It is intended solely for general information and is based on carefully researched content. For a binding legal assessment, please consult a qualified attorney or refer to official legal sources.

Introduction

The loss of a coat check token is a common problem in clubs, theaters, trade fairs, or event halls. Many guests panic when they can no longer find their token – after all, it is the only proof that the jacket or bag they left behind belongs to them.

For operators, the question arises: How can one handle such cases in a legally secure manner? Simply handing out the jacket without a token can be risky, as according to § 807 BGB, the coat check token is considered a bearer document – whoever possesses it has a claim to the coat.

This article explains what steps operators should take to prevent misuse and why a loss certificate with proof of identity is a sensible solution.

Summary (Key Points at a Glance)

• The coat check token is a bearer document (§ 807 BGB) – whoever possesses it can demand the jacket back.

• A photo of the token is not a valid proof of possession and should not be accepted.

• Operators should never hand over a coat without documentation, as this can lead to misuse.

• A loss certificate with identity verification is the best solution to legally protect both guests and operators.

• Terms and Conditions should include clear regulations to avoid liability issues.

1. Why a coat check token is important

The coat check token is not only used for the quick identification of a jacket but also serves a legal function. According to § 807 BGB, it is a so-called bearer document.

This means:

• Whoever possesses the physical token has a right to the coat.

• Whether the person is actually the owner of the jacket does not initially matter.

This creates a problem: If the token is lost, it could be found and redeemed by someone else. The operator then has no way to prove who the jacket really belongs to.

📌 Example:

A guest loses their coat check token in the club. Another person finds it and hands it in at the coat check. Since the token is the only proof, that person receives the jacket – even if they are not the actual owner.

2. Why a photo of the token is not sufficient

Many guests try to protect themselves by photographing their coat check token. However, a photo is not a valid proof of possession.

Why?

• The photo only shows the number of the token, not the actual possession of the physical token.

• Someone else might find and use the token in the meantime.

• The operator cannot ensure that the guest is not simply using an old photo to obtain someone else's jacket.

Best Practice:

Operators should clearly communicate that a photo is not considered a substitute for the token and will not be accepted under any circumstances.

3. What operators should do when a token is lost

Operators must find a solution that protects both the guest and themselves. The best practice is a combination of identity verification, documentation, and liability waiver.

Step-by-Step Process

1️⃣ Guests should immediately report the loss

• Guests must inform the coat check staff directly when they have lost their token.

• This reduces the risk of a third party finding and using the token.

2️⃣ The guest must provide a detailed description of the jacket

• Color, material, brand, size

• Special features (e.g., hood, inner pockets, prints)

• Contents of the pockets (if relevant)

3️⃣ Identity verification

• The guest must present a photo ID (ID card or driver's license).

• The personal details will be noted.

4️⃣ Filling out a loss report

• The guest must fill out a form confirming the loss and detailing the description of their property.

• The jacket will only be handed over under this condition.

• The guest agrees that if another person redeems the token, the operator is not liable.

5️⃣ Careful handover of the jacket

• The guest's information is compared with the remaining coat checks.

• If there are any ambiguities, the return should be refused or a responsible person should be consulted.

4. How operators can legally protect themselves

To avoid disputes, operators should take preventive measures:

✔ Install informational signs

• Guests should be informed of the regulation upon entering.

• Example: “Please keep your coat check token safe. In case of loss, the jacket will only be returned against identity verification and a completed loss report.”

✔ Adjust terms and conditions accordingly

• It should be clearly stated that in case of loss of the token, there is no automatic right to the coat.

• Guests must commit to returning the jacket if it later turns out that it does not belong to them.

✔ Train staff

• The coat check staff should know exactly how to proceed in such cases.

• No jacket should be handed over without a complete loss report.

5. Template: Loss Report for Coat Check Token

To provide operators with a legally secure solution, they can use this loss report:

Loss Report Coat Check Token

Date: ____________

Event Venue: ____________________

Coat Check Number (if known): ____________

Guest's Name: ____________________

Address: ____________________________

Phone/Email: ____________________________

Description of the Clothing Item:

• Color: ____________

• Brand/Model: ____________

• Special Features: ____________

• Contents of the pockets (if relevant): ____________

I hereby declare that I have lost the coat check token and that the coat described above is my property. I understand that the operator cannot guarantee the return without the token. If a third party appears with the coat check token and receives the coat, I cannot make any further claims.

I commit to immediately returning the jacket if it turns out that it does not belong to me.

ID card/Driver's license number: _______________

Guest's Signature: __________________

Handler (coats staff member): __________________

Conclusion: Safety for Guests and Operators

• The coat check token is the only valid proof of possession.

• A photo is not a substitute and should not be accepted.

• Without a token, an identity verification and a loss report should be required.

• Operators should formulate clear rules in their terms and conditions and communicate them prominently.

Do you want to make your coat check legally secure?

Download our PDF “Making the Coat Check Legally Secure” now and receive valuable tips to optimally protect yourself as an operator.