Removing Tenant Fixtures in Germany: Documentation Guide

When moving out, many tenants in Germany wonder how to properly remove and document fixtures such as shelves, fitted kitchens or lights. Careful documentation protects you from unjustified landlord claims, makes the handover easier and shows which work you performed. In this article you will find practical steps for photo documentation, keeping a protocol, relevant deadlines and official forms you can use in disputes. We explain when removal can be demanded, which rights under the BGB apply and how to store evidence securely. Practical examples and phrasing suggestions for handover protocols complete the guide.

What does removal mean and when is it required?

Removal refers to taking out fixtures that a tenant has installed. Whether you are obliged to remove them depends primarily on the lease. In many cases landlords demand the original condition at move-out. Relevant statutory provisions can be found in the BGB, especially on tenant duties and maintenance ^[1]. In disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent and procedural rules from the ZPO apply ^[2].

Which documentation helps most?

• Take photos of fitted kitchens, sockets and fixings from several angles and use dated file names (evidence).
• Record the date and time of each job and document deadlines (deadline).
• Create a written handover protocol and have the landlord countersign it (form).
• Keep invoices for craftsmen and materials (repair).
• Document key handover and note or obtain witness signatures (move-out).

Practical example: photo and protocol standard

Photograph the entire wall first, then detail shots of fixings; name files with the date and a short note. Create a protocol listing condition, work performed, invoices and witnesses. If the landlord specifies requirements, record them in writing.

Important forms and templates

There is no nationwide mandatory form for a removal protocol, but templates for terminations and guidance are provided by the Federal Ministry of Justice. A formally correct termination letter or handover protocol template helps meet deadlines and document claims. In the protocol include date, precise description of fixtures, work carried out, existing defects and signatures. Official legal texts (BGB) and procedural rules (ZPO) are useful when disputes arise ^[1][2]. Templates from the Federal Ministry of Justice can be used as orientation ^[3].

FAQ

Do I have to remove fixtures when moving out?

It depends on the lease; without a written agreement the landlord can demand removal if fixtures change the apartment's condition.

What deadlines apply to invoices and complaints?

Practically, collect all receipts immediately and lodge objections within weeks after handover if there are complaints; statutory deadlines for court cases are governed by the ZPO.

Which evidence is most important in a dispute?

Date-stamped photos, signed handover protocols, invoices and witness statements are crucial.

Anleitung

1. Take photos (evidence): Use overall shots, close-ups and dated file names.
2. Create a protocol (form): Describe condition, note work done and obtain signatures.
3. Collect receipts (repair): Keep invoices and quotes.
4. Check deadlines (deadline): Observe contractual and statutory deadlines.
5. Document the handover (move-out): Record key transfer and name witnesses.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB e7a7 535-580a
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
• Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)

1. [1] BGB e7a7 535-580a b7 Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO b7 Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Muster und Hinweise b7 Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)