Move-Out Cleanliness: Tenant Rights Germany

As a tenant in Germany, the question often arises when moving out: what exactly does "besenrein" mean and what obligations do I have towards my landlord? This short guide explains common cleaning tasks, how to observe deadlines and handover appointments, which documents and photos help with the handover protocol, and when costs for additional cleaning or repairs may occur. I describe practical steps, cite important sections of tenancy law and offer wording suggestions for sample texts so you can complete the handover without uncertainty. The aim is to provide legal clarity so tenants can avoid disputes and support their deposit return. Use these tips to prevent disputes and unnecessary costs.

What "Besenrein" Means

"Besenrein" does not mean professionally cleaned but free of coarse dirt. The legal basis is found in the rules on the rental contract and maintenance in Sections 535–580a of the BGB^[1]. Commonly, carpets, heavy stains and stubborn dirt are not expected, but swept floors, clean sanitary areas and removal of trash before handover are.

Move-Out Checklist

• When moving out, sweep floors and remove coarse dirt.
• Clean kitchen and sanitary facilities and check basic maintenance.
• Take photos and prepare a handover protocol noting defects and meter readings.
• Return all keys and confirm the handover appointment.
• Submit forms and cancellations in time and check mail forwarding.

FAQ

What exactly does "besenrein" mean?

"Besenrein" means the property is free from coarse dirt; a professional cleaning is not expected. Details are governed by tenancy law and the rental contract.^[1]

Do I have to repair all damages?

Normal wear and tear is usually the landlord's responsibility; the tenant may be charged for damage they caused. Disputes are decided by the local court or, if necessary, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2]

Can the landlord deduct cleaning costs from the deposit?

Yes, if professional cleaning is necessary due to excessive dirt, the landlord can charge costs; pay attention to specific regulations for heating costs.^[3]

How-To

1. Check the rental agreement for deadlines and handover appointments.
2. Document the condition with photos and note meter readings.
3. Clean coarse dirt and prepare all keys.
4. Arrange the handover and sign the protocol together.

Key Takeaways

• "Besenrein" means free from coarse dirt, not professionally cleaned.
• Documentation with photos protects you in disputes.
• Observe deadlines and handover appointments to avoid costs.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB Sections 535–580a
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law
• Heating Costs Ordinance – Rules on heating costs

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Entscheidungen
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet: Heizkostenverordnung