Inventory List 2025 for Tenants in Germany

A careful inventory list helps tenants in Germany to record damages and furnishings at move-in and move-out as evidence. This practical guide explains step by step which items belong in the list, how to document photos and dates, and how to correctly complete a handover protocol. You will learn which deadlines and forms are relevant, what rights and obligations tenants and landlords have, and how to proceed in a dispute. Examples, checklists and notes on official forms help you avoid unnecessary costs and secure your claims. I also explain how to store an inventory list digitally, make copies and which formulations are advisable for defects. I also name the responsible authorities and courts, link official forms and provide practical templates for the handover.

What belongs in an inventory list?

• Describe furniture, inventory and condition precisely, including visible damage.
• Take photos with date and time and assign them clearly to each entry.
• Record meter readings (electricity, gas, water) at move-in.
• Document key handover: note quantity and function of keys.
• Have the handover protocol signed and keep copies safely.

How to document correctly

Good documentation means clear, dated and verifiable entries. Write short, precise condition descriptions next to each item, number photos and store original files with dates in the file name. For obvious defects, note location, size and visible cause. Send a copy of the signed handover protocol to the landlord and keep a copy.

• Photos: take close-ups and overview images, make the date visible.
• Protocol: enter place, date, names of landlord and tenant and sign.
• Observe deadlines: meet reporting and notification deadlines to preserve rights.

Rights, duties and official forms

Tenant rights and duties are set out in the BGB, especially §§ 535–580a.^[1] The rules of the ZPO apply in court disputes.^[2] Important templates such as sample termination letters or guidance on forms can be found at official bodies like the Federal Ministry of Justice.^[3]

Concrete action steps

When creating the inventory list, proceed systematically: room by room, item by item. Number entries and photos, make a copy for yourself and one for the landlord. Keep digital backups and date all files clearly.

FAQ

What is an inventory list and why is it important?

An inventory list documents the condition and furnishings of the apartment at move-in and move-out and serves as evidence in disputes over damage or replacement claims.

Does the inventory list have to be signed by the landlord?

It is advisable to have the handover protocol signed by both parties; however, a unilateral list can serve as evidence if it is well documented.

Where can I turn in case of a legal dispute?

For rental disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; procedural rules are governed by the ZPO.^[2]

How-To

1. Gather all rooms and items: create a room-by-room list.
2. Photograph each item from multiple angles and number the photos.
3. Record meter readings and other numeric values at handover.
4. Have the handover protocol signed by both parties and distribute copies.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation protects tenants from unjustified claims.
• Observe deadlines for reports and notifications.

Help and Support

• Civil Code (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – bmjv.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (Forms & Samples) - bmjv.de