Move-in Defect Checklist: Tenant Tips Germany

When moving in on a weekend, tenants often face the issue of correctly documenting damages and missing fittings. This guide helps you in Germany to create a clear defect checklist, meet deadlines and securely collect evidence. You will learn which photos, notes and witnesses are important, how to inform the landlord and which official forms or letters are useful. There are also tips on quick repairs, rent reductions and communication by email or registered mail. The aim is for you to know your rights as a tenant and avoid disputes later. The language is practical and easy to follow so you can act immediately, even if key handover and move-in take place on a Saturday or Sunday.

Before Moving In

Before moving in you should systematically check and document everything:

• Take photos of all rooms, floors, walls, windows and the staircase.
• Note missing or damaged fixtures (kitchen, lights, sockets).
• Record meter readings (electricity, gas, water) in writing.
• If necessary, ask neighbors or witnesses to confirm the handover.

At Key Handover

If the handover takes place at the weekend, quick, clear communication is important:

• Write a short handover list with the name/signature of the person handing over, if possible.
• Request missing keys or the tenancy agreement by email or registered mail.
• Note the time and names of the people present.

Documentation and Official Forms

Certain forms and legal references are important for later proof. Relevant legal bases can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) on landlord obligations and tenant rights.^[1]

Useful forms and template letters (e.g. defect notice, termination letter) should be known and used correctly.^[3] One concrete example: a concise defect notice with date, description, photos and a deadline helps with later claims.

How and When to React

Act promptly: set the landlord a reasonable deadline to remedy the defect and document the deadline in your defect list.

• Set a deadline (e.g. 14 days) and send it by email or registered mail.
• If there is no response, consider rent reduction or arranging repairs yourself and claiming costs.
• In case of legal disputes, contact the local district court (Amtsgericht).^[2]

FAQ

What belongs in a defect checklist?

Date, precise description, photos, meter readings, names of witnesses and a clear deadline for remediation.

Can I reduce the rent if the heating is missing?

Yes, in case of significant impairment rent reduction may be possible; document the extent and duration of the defect and check the legal situation in the BGB.^[1]

Who do I contact in a dispute?

Initially the local district court (Amtsgericht); for precedents the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decides.^[2]

How-To

1. Create a complete photographic record immediately upon moving in.
2. Write a formal defect notice with a deadline and send it by email and registered mail.
3. Keep all receipts, invoices and communication records safe.
4. If necessary, seek legal advice and consider filing a claim at the district court.
5. Decide on rent reduction or repair based on the documented evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Early documentation protects your rights as a tenant in Germany.
• Email and registered mail provide reliable proof for deadlines and notices.

Help and Support

• BGB §535 – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• Federal Ministry of Justice

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Federal Court of Justice — BGH
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice — BMJ