Move-out Cleanliness for Tenants in Germany

What does "besenrein" (clean-swept) mean?

For tenants, "besenrein" practically means the apartment is roughly cleaned, free of trash and broom-ready, but does not require a professional final cleaning. Legal foundations on duties and liability can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a^[1]. Whether additional cleaning or cosmetic repairs are required depends on the rental agreement and statutory limits.

Preparing for the handover

Create a handover protocol with the date, meter readings and photos; collect receipts for repairs and cleanings. If deadlines or court clarification become necessary, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent for tenancy disputes^[2]. Attach necessary forms correctly, such as a written termination or claims for the deposit refund, and document the handover.

• Sweep floors and remove crumbs (repair).
• Remove trash and personal items (repair).
• Take photos of all rooms and defects (photo).
• Fill out the handover protocol and have both parties sign it (form).

If the landlord demands additional cleaning, check the lease and document the condition at move-in and move-out. Use official sample forms and guidance from authorities for termination or deposit claims when in doubt^[3].

What are the costs and who is liable?

Normally, the tenant bears the cost of normal cleaning; the landlord can claim damages for excessive dirt or damage. If a landlord demands a professional cleaning without contractual basis, this is often not mandatory. Keep receipts for all cleaning costs and invoices.

Forms and templates (official guidance)

For termination letters and deposit claims, official guidance and sample texts are helpful; use templates only as orientation and always add concrete data and signatures. Examples: written termination, handover protocol, claim for deposit refund. Use official instructions for form and deadline compliance.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing deadlines – create the protocol and serve documents within agreed times (deadline).
• No photos – lack of evidence makes enforcing claims harder (evidence).

Frequently Asked Questions

1) Do I have to hire a professional cleaner when moving out?

No. Generally, sweep-clean is sufficient; professional final cleaning is required only if explicitly agreed in the contract.

2) What should be in the handover protocol?

Date, time, meter readings, visible defects, signed confirmation by both parties and photos for documentation.

3) Where can I turn if the landlord makes claims?

Try to resolve in writing first; in case of dispute the competent local court (Amtsgericht) can decide. Receipts and protocols are important.

How-To

1. Take photos of all rooms and defects (photo).
2. Perform a basic cleaning: sweep floors, remove trash (repair).
3. Complete the handover protocol, note meter readings and have both parties sign (form).
4. Document key return and obtain a receipt (move-out).

Key Takeaways

• "Besenrein" means basic cleaning, not professional final cleaning.
• Documentation with photos and a signed protocol protects against later claims.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)