Move-out Cleanliness Checklist for Tenants in Germany

When moving out, cleanliness at the basic level is crucial for tenants in Germany. This checklist explains which areas should be cleaned, which deadlines and obligations apply under tenancy law, and how to create a legally sound handover protocol. You will get practical steps for documenting damages, instructions for returning keys, and templates for common forms. The guide is written for tenants without legal training and refers to the relevant legal basis such as the BGB^[1]. With careful preparation you avoid disputes over utility billing or claims about alleged dirt. Follow the photo documentation tips and reasonable cleaning tasks to help prevent unnecessary retention of the deposit.

What does "besenrein" mean?

Besenrein generally means: remove loose dirt, sweep floors, do not leave loose items, and perform basic cleaning of sanitary areas. It is often agreed as a minimum standard in the tenancy agreement; exact obligations depend on the contract and circumstances. Special agreements, such as a tenant-contracted final cleaning, may change requirements.

Checklist: Rooms and tasks

• Halls and rooms: sweep thoroughly, remove loose dirt and clear furniture remnants (move-out).
• Kitchen: clean work surfaces, clean stove/oven roughly and remove deposits (repair).
• Bathroom: descale sanitary fittings, check drains and photograph mold spots (repair).
• Balcony/storage: remove coarse dirt and follow landlord care instructions (move-out).
• Documentation: take photos of each room and note the date; name files clearly (evidence).

Handover protocol & formalities

A handover protocol records condition, meter readings and key delivery. Note observed defects and have both landlord and tenant sign. The protocol is important if later claims arise about alleged dirt or damages. If necessary, rely on tenancy law provisions and present evidence^[1].

Forms and court procedures

Important official documents for tenants include, for example, a template for termination letters and information on filing an eviction claim under the ZPO^[2]. Example: use a termination letter template to meet the notice deadline; include date, addresses and signature. For an eviction claim, filing at the competent local court is required; the ZPO regulates the procedure^[2] and the local court determines eviction and service^[3].

FAQ

What exactly counts as "besenrein"?

"Besenrein" usually includes removing loose dirt, sweeping floors and removing garbage; deeper cleaning depends on the tenancy agreement.

Do I have to remove all stains?

Normal wear and tear is often accepted. Severe dirt or damage can, however, lead to costs claimed by the landlord.

What if the landlord makes claims at handover?

Insist on a signed handover protocol, document the condition with photos and check tenancy law. Seek legal advice if necessary.

How-To

1. Check notice period and appointment (deadline): plan buffer time for cleaning and handover.
2. Review the tenancy agreement and use a template termination letter (form) to avoid mistakes.
3. Take photos of all rooms systematically as evidence (evidence): note date and direction.
4. Fix minor defects yourself (repair) or document them thoroughly in the protocol.
5. Create a handover protocol on site and have it signed (form).
6. Hand over keys in person or by agreement and obtain a receipt (move-out).

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de