A method for detecting damage to a converter device of a lighting apparatus is provided. The method may include irradiating the converter device with input light, detecting a useful light portion emitted principally by a first section of the converter device by means of a first sensor element. A first detection signal is obtained, detecting a useful light portion emitted principally by a second section of the converter device, said second section being different than the first section, by means of a second sensor element. A second detection signal is obtained. The method further may include automatically obtaining damage information about the converter device from a ratio or a difference of the first detection signal with respect to either the second detection signal or a comparison signal formed therefrom.