Inventory List for Remote Move: Tenants in Germany

When doing a remote move, an agreed inventory list is especially important for tenants in Germany because personal presence can be difficult and later disputes should be avoided. Collect photos early, provide precise descriptions and witness details, record meter readings and communicate appointment times in writing with the landlord. This approach protects your deposit claims and helps clarify liability for damages later. The article gives practical steps, pointers to official legal bases and what to include in a handover protocol so that your evidence is reliable in later disputes.

Why an inventory list matters for a remote move

An inventory list documents the condition and accessories of the apartment and serves as evidence if questions about damage or deposit deductions arise. Add timestamps, photos and signatures when possible, and confirm changes by e‑mail so the condition at handover is verifiable.^[1]

What belongs in the inventory list

• Date and time of handover (appointment) and who was present.
• Condition of floors, walls and appliances – photos and videos as evidence, with short descriptions.
• Function check of heating, electrical systems and plumbing (heating, repair) including meter readings.
• Deposit amount, possible rent-related deductions and receipts.
• Contact details of landlord, property manager and any witnesses.

How tenants and landlords agree the list

Arrange a binding handover appointment in writing and send a preliminary inventory list by e‑mail. Ask the landlord to note additions directly in the list or to confirm changes. If an in-person handover is impossible, request electronic confirmation and upload independent photos.

1. Create the list at least 7 days before moving and share it with the landlord.
2. Document each defect with photo, date and short description.
3. Request a signature or written confirmation by e‑mail.
4. Keep all receipts, invoices and message records until the deposit is returned.
5. If necessary, prepare a concise defect list for the deposit settlement.

Evidence preservation and formal notes

For tenants, the landlord's legal duties and the rights from the tenancy contract are important; central legal norms are found in the BGB, especially rules on maintenance and defect rights.^[1] For court action, the procedural rules of the ZPO apply.^[2] If proceedings arise, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; higher instances include the regional court (Landgericht) and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) for legal precedent.^[3]

FAQ

What if the landlord refuses to sign the inventory list?

Send the list as an e‑mail attachment, document sending and content, and create a photo record. Consider registered mail or a witness confirmation.

Are photos sufficient as evidence?

Photos are important evidence but should include dates and descriptions; witnesses or written confirmations are additionally helpful.

Can the landlord claim damages later?

Yes, but the landlord must prove damages; a thorough handover record reduces the likelihood of later claims.

Anleitung

1. Create a complete inventory list with photo and video evidence.
2. Send the list to the landlord and property manager by e‑mail and save the message.
3. Arrange a handover appointment or request electronic confirmation.
4. Keep all receipts, repair invoices and communication records.
5. Use the documentation for the deposit settlement or as evidence at the local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB (Civil Code)
• Gesetze im Internet – ZPO (Code of Civil Procedure)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) § 535 - Use and maintenance obligations
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Procedural rules
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Information and decisions