Clean Handover for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a clean handover of your apartment is an important step to secure the return of your deposit and avoid later disputes. This guide explains in plain language which cleaning and documentation obligations are commonly expected, how to record defects and damages with evidence, and which deadlines apply when moving out. You will receive practical checklists, sample wording for handover protocols and guidance on when official authorities or the local court are responsible. The instructions reference relevant sections of the BGB and show which official forms you can use. This way you are better prepared, save time and protect your rights vis-à-vis the landlord.

What does "clean handover" mean?

The term "clean handover" usually means a basic cleaning: no large dirt, removed trash and visible cleaning of floors and surfaces. The exact scope is often set by the rental contract and general legal duties of landlord and tenant under the BGB^[1]. If unclear, a joint handover protocol with date and signatures helps.

Checklist for a clean handover

• Take photos and videos of each room as evidence
• Record defects in writing and collect receipts
• Complete contractual repairs or cosmetic work
• Prepare the deposit accounting and check outstanding claims
• Perform final cleaning or hire a professional cleaner
• Hand over keys and obtain confirmation of receipt

Evidence and handover protocol

A handover protocol should include the date, condition of each room, meter readings and signatures of tenant and landlord. Use clear wording and attach photos as annexes. Official forms or sample letters can be helpful, for example a termination letter (template from the Federal Ministry of Justice) or guidance on court proceedings under the ZPO^[3][2]. If a party later makes claims, dated photos and a signed protocol are often decisive.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly counts as a clean handover?

A clean handover includes removing trash, roughly cleaning floors and surfaces, and leaving intact, clean fixtures unless the contract states otherwise.

Can the landlord demand extra cleaning or repairs?

Only if the lease contract includes binding cosmetic repairs or damages exceed normal wear and tear. Otherwise, excessive demands are not easily enforceable.

How long do I have to report defects after the handover?

You should document defects immediately at the handover. Later complaints are harder to enforce, so the sooner you document, the better.

How-To

1. Take photos of all rooms and existing damages
2. Create a handover protocol with date, meter readings and signatures
3. Carry out minor contractual repairs in time
4. Prepare deposit accounting and keep copies of invoices
5. Hand over keys in person and have receipt confirmed
6. If there is a dispute: collect evidence and consider legal steps

Help and Support

• German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) - information and templates

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ) - bmj.de