After the Grenchner Schlager scandal: As a ticket holder you have these rights

Automatic request in case of concert cancellation

“If the organizers cancel the concert on their own initiative, ticket holders have the right to demand the money back,” says Mauchle. Regardless of whether you purchase ticket protection or not. It is a common misconception that ticket protection is required in case the organizer cancels the concert. “When you buy a ticket, the organizer and the buyer sign a contract,” explains Mauchle. According to the consumer lawyer, the organizers’ failure to hold the event constitutes a breach of contract. “In this case, it is the organizers who are responsible, not the buyers.”

The situation becomes even more complicated if the organizers propose a postponement date after the cancellation. “Ticket holders are generally expected to return to the concert on that date,” Mauchle says. Those who cannot do this for scheduling reasons will sometimes be denied a refund.

This is problematic from a consumer protection perspective, as Mauchle explains: “Ticket holders do not have to accept the postponement.” In these cases, ticket holders can request a refund even if there is no ticket protection.

Ticket protection only makes sense under certain conditions

In some cases, ticket insurance might make sense, Mauchle says. However, there are only a few scenarios, such as cancellation or delay of public transportation, serious and unforeseen illness, or official hearing. “In such cases, ticket holders who are covered by insurance may cancel their purchases.”

It’s not always worth it, especially in case of illness. “In order to prove the disease, you need to go to the doctor and get a doctor’s report.” Depending on the health insurance policy, this also includes costs higher than the ticket price, according to Mauchle.

You buy convenience

Although the costs of ticket protection are generally low, Mauchle recommends careful consideration of obtaining this type of insurance. It is worth checking whether the travel insurance you already have takes out includes insurance for cancellation costs of entertainment events. “If you then buy ticket insurance, you’ll pay twice as much for the same protection.”

Mauchle says that with ticket protection, you’re buying not only a few additional rights as a consumer, but also convenience: “Seeking a refund is often time-consuming. Ticket protection can make this easier, but only in a few cases.”