Interim Meter Readings: Tenant Evidence in Germany

During interim meter readings before moving in or out, tenants in Germany often face uncertainty. This practical guide shows how you, as a tenant or flatshare member, can record meter readings and the condition of the apartment with a structured photo check to preserve evidence. I explain step by step which photos make sense, how to document date and time, which forms and deadlines may be important, and how to store records securely. The tips are deliberately practical and clear so that straightforward steps emerge even without legal knowledge. At the end you will find FAQs, a how-to guide and official authorities for disputes in Germany.

Why interim meter readings matter

A careful interim meter reading protects tenants from later disputes about meter readings, damage or the security deposit accounting. Rights and obligations in tenancy law are regulated in the BGB, in particular regarding maintenance and takeover duties; see §§ 535–580a.^[1]

What the photo check should include

• Meter readings (electricity, gas, water) photographed straight on, with meter number and display clearly visible.
• Wide-angle shots of the room: floors, walls, ceilings, windows with date and time.
• Document particular defects photographically (mold, dampness, broken heating) from close and from a distance.
• Scan or photograph all relevant documents: tenancy agreement, handover protocols, previous defect reports.
• Record key handover: who received which keys and when.

Secure date, time and metadata

Photos with embedded timestamps (EXIF) are often more persuasive than merely labeled screenshots. Additionally note date, time and the names of present persons in a short text file saved with the images. For digital evidence, origin can later be checked via metadata.

Forms, deadlines and where to file lawsuits

There is no single nationwide mandatory template for every handover, but procedural rules exist for court actions. A dunning procedure or initiating an eviction lawsuit follows the Civil Procedure Rules and is usually filed at the competent local court (Amtsgericht).^[2] For technical legal guidance, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice can provide orientation.^[3]

Practically: document, observe deadlines (e.g. for defect notifications or utility billing) and react in time. Use handover protocols with photos as a complement to written defect notices.

FAQ

Who may conduct an interim meter reading?

Any person present can note and photograph the meter readings. If in doubt, confirm the result by e-mail to the landlord or property manager.

Are photos alone sufficient as evidence?

Photos are important but rarely sufficient on their own. Combine photos with date, time, witnesses or confirmation emails to strengthen evidential value.

Does the landlord have to be present for the reading?

No, but announcing the appointment and documenting the result is advisable. A recorded, photographed reading reduces misunderstandings.

How-To

1. Prepare: create a checklist of meters, rooms and required documents.
2. Photograph: take several pictures of each item from different angles.
3. Document: label images and save date/time together with a short note.
4. Confirm: send a copy of the protocol by e-mail to the landlord or property manager for acknowledgement.
5. Store: back up files in at least two locations (e.g. cloud and external drive).

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a – Civil Code (tenancy law)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case law

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1. [1] BGB §§535–580a – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Verfahrensregeln
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Entscheidungen