Move-Out Cleanliness for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you should know what "besenrein" (sweep-clean) means at move-out and which obligations result. This practical guide explains clearly when an apartment is considered sweep-clean, which cleaning steps are customary and how to document defects or landlord claims. You will receive practical tips on deadlines, handover protocols, required forms and how to handle deposit deductions or subsequent claims. Legal basics and responsible authorities are named clearly so you can carry out handovers safely and in a legally secure way. Concrete examples show how to prepare a handover protocol or draft a letter to the landlord. Links to official laws and template forms help with implementation.

What does "besenrein" mean?

"Besenrein" generally means that coarse dirt has been removed and the apartment has been swept; there is usually no obligation for professional carpet cleaning or renovation work unless contractually agreed otherwise. The exact obligation may arise from the rental agreement; statutory foundations are found in the German Civil Code (BGB) and general tenancy law provisions.^[1]

Key points before the handover

• Empty the rooms and remove coarse dirt (move-out).
• Carry out minor repairs if contractually required (repair).
• Clarify deposit issues and prepare receipts (deposit).
• Take photos and prepare a handover protocol (record).
• Agree the handover appointment with the landlord in good time (deadline).

Handover protocol & official forms

A handover protocol protects both parties: record meter readings, visible defects and the cleanliness condition. Official legal texts govern obligations and procedures; in court disputes the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is decisive for legal actions and deadlines.^[2]

Relevant forms and templates (e.g. termination letters or handover confirmations) should be obtained from official authorities. The Federal Ministry of Justice provides templates and guidance for tenants and landlords.^[3]

FAQ

Who pays for the final cleaning?

Generally the landlord bears costs for necessary repairs; however, an agreed or contractually regulated final cleaning may be for the tenant's account. Check your rental agreement carefully.

When is the apartment sufficiently sweep-clean?

When coarse dirt is removed and the apartment is swept. Special contractual agreements may require higher standards.

What to do if the landlord makes subsequent claims?

Document the condition with photos and the protocol, request a detailed statement and review the claim in court at the competent local court or seek legal advice.

How-To

1. Agree the handover appointment and note the date and time in the protocol (form).
2. Take photos of all rooms and defects and store them in an organized file (record).
3. Perform coarse cleaning: sweep, wipe sanitary areas, remove trash (move-out).
4. Fill out the protocol: meter readings, key handover, outstanding items (form).
5. Collect receipts for renovations and repairs and provide them to the landlord on request (deposit).

Help & Support / Resources

• [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection