Photo & Video Checklist for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a complete photo and video record at move-in, during the tenancy and at move-out is often decisive. Photos and short videos help to clearly document damage, defects or missing items, meet deadlines and forms, and avoid later disputes with the landlord or in court. This checklist shows which recordings are useful, how to document date and place in a legally secure way, which forms to consider and how to store evidence materials in an organized manner. The guide also explains when you can contact the local court or tenant support and which sections of the BGB are relevant. Practical tips make behavior at handovers and in disputes easier.

Why document?

Comprehensive documentation protects tenant rights: photos and videos prove the condition at move-in and move-out, document defects and help assert claims under §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1]

Before recording: preparation

• Record date and time
• Take photos and videos of the rooms (wide and detailed)
• Detailed shots of defects (mold, heating, water marks)
• Have important forms and the handover protocol ready
• Check devices (camera date/time correct)

At handover and for defects: what to document

• Photograph entire rooms in several shots from different angles
• All visible defects with close-ups and context (e.g. surrounding wall)
• Make the date stamp visible or photograph a separate note with the date
• Document key handover and meter readings
• Have the handover protocol signed and photograph it

How to use recordings as evidence

Store files in chronological order, name files with date and short title, and keep a backup copy in a second location. If you submit evidence to court, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply; consult the local court or a legal advisory service in good time.^[2]

Brief: forms and templates

Key documents are the handover protocol, a written defect notification form and, if necessary, a termination letter. Use official templates or wording that include date, defect description, a deadline and a request for remedy. Specify a concrete deadline for correction and send the letter with proof of delivery.

FAQ

Do I need photos at move-in?

Yes. Photos and videos at move-in protect against later claims and are important for the handover protocol.

How long should I keep the recordings?

Keep evidence photos and videos at least until all claims are resolved, usually at least three years, stored in an organized way.

What if the landlord does not accept evidence?

Collect witnesses and protocols and contact the local court or an advisory service; the Code of Civil Procedure governs evidence collection and proceedings.^[2]

How-To

1. Preparation: read the rental agreement, prepare camera and protocol.
2. Recording: photograph each room completely and take close-ups of defects.
3. Documentation: note date/time and save files with clear names.
4. Defect notice: send a written defect notice with a deadline to the landlord.
5. If necessary: submit documents to the local court or seek legal assistance.

Help and Support / Resources

• Laws: BGB on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
• Courts in Germany (justiz.de)

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Courts in Germany (justiz.de)