Photo Checklist for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you should systematically take photos and videos at move-in, during the tenancy and at move-out. This documentation helps to securely capture the condition of the apartment, provide clarity for repair requests or rent reductions, and avoid disputes with the landlord. In this guide we explain which areas you should photograph, how to secure timestamps and metadata, and how to store recordings legally. We also show which official laws and courts are relevant and which forms may be needed in a dispute. After reading you will know concrete steps to help protect your rights as a tenant in Germany. The tips are practical and easy to implement.

Why photos & videos matter

Good photo and video documentation can, if necessary, prove the condition in which rooms, floors or fixtures were handed over. It is based on the landlord's rental law duties and tenants' rights under the BGB.^[1] Procedural rules of the ZPO apply to legal actions.^[2] Photos support repair reports, rent reduction decisions and court submissions.

What to document

• Condition at move-in (move-in)
• Damages and defects, including heating, mold, water (repair)
• Meter readings, invoices and handover protocols (record)
• Rent payments, deposit receipts and receipts (rent)
• Key handover and special agreements (keys)
• Clearly document date, time and location (time)

Tips for recording

• Photograph each room from multiple angles and include a scale such as a ruler or tape measure.
• Make short videos with spoken comments for context, location and condition.
• Secure timestamps via camera settings, EXIF data or separate log files.
• Keep original files unchanged and create organized copies.

FAQ

Do I need photo and video recordings at move-in?

It is highly recommended: recordings show the handover condition and prevent later disputes.

How long should I keep recordings?

Keep documents and photos at least as long as rental claims may exist; in doubt 3 years until claim limitation.

What if the landlord disputes the photos?

Collect all evidence, note witnesses and, if necessary, involve the local court; a court decides based on the evidence.

How-To

1. Photograph immediately: make recordings promptly at move-in and when a defect is discovered.
2. Name systematically: include date, location and short description in file names.
3. Secure metadata: use camera clock, EXIF data or separate log files.
4. Create secure copies: keep an offline backup and one in the cloud.
5. Compile receipts: include receipts, invoices and handover protocols.
6. Take action in a dispute: organize evidence and, if necessary, present it at the local court.^[3]

Key Takeaways

• Photos and videos are central evidence in housing disputes.
• Document date and time clearly.
• Store copies in multiple locations for long-term preservation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB (tenancy law)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — Decisions