Tenant Checklist: Drill Holes & Anchors 2025 Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may wonder which drill holes and anchors are acceptable at move-out and which repairs or cosmetic works a landlord may expect. This guide explains clearly how to classify drill holes, what documentation helps, and which deadlines and legal bases apply. You will get practical steps for photographing, tracking deadlines, notifying defects in writing, and simple suggestions for proper repair of small holes. The aim is to avoid disputes with your landlord, reduce security deposit deductions, and protect your rights under the BGB. Examples and tips for conversations with your landlord as well as court options in case of conflicts are also included. Read on for clear steps.

What applies to drill holes and anchors?

Essentially, the law in Germany distinguishes between normal wear and tear and damage that goes beyond ordinary use. Small holes for pictures are often considered usual signs of use; larger or improperly removed anchors can justify deposit deductions. The legal bases regarding landlord and tenant obligations are found in the BGB, especially the provisions on maintenance and cosmetic repairs.^[1]

Before drilling: check & document

• document: Take photos of the wall, position and measurements (include visible date) before drilling.
• notice: Inform the landlord in advance if you plan larger fixtures or changes.
• repair: Use appropriate anchors and follow installation instructions to protect the wall and fixture.

At move-out: handover, protocol and deposit

For the handover, arrange a joint appointment, record defects in a protocol and, if possible, have witnesses. If the landlord makes deductions, request an itemized list and evidence. Documentation reduces the risk of unjustified claims and simplifies later court review.

Forms and legal steps

There are no mandatory standard forms for many situations, but some formal letters are common:

• Termination letter template (e.g., model termination) for ending a rental contract; use a clearly dated letter with proof of receipt if you wish to end the tenancy.
• Defect notification: briefly state the facts, time, desired deadline for remedy and attach photos; this notification helps in later deposit disputes.
• Filing a lawsuit at the local court (ZPO §253): if no agreement is possible, the local court handles many tenancy disputes and the procedure is governed by the ZPO.^[2]

Example: send a defect notification with photos by registered mail and set a reasonable 14-day deadline for repair. If the landlord does not respond, you may reduce the rent or ultimately bring the case to the local court.

FAQ

Who pays for removing anchors?

It depends on the extent: normal signs of use are usually not charged, but major or improper work can be billed by the landlord as damage. Documentation is decisive.

Can the landlord keep the entire deposit because of drill holes?

No, the landlord must prove specific damage amounts; flat-rate deductions are often not permissible. If in doubt, the local court can decide.

What deadlines apply to reporting defects?

Defects should be reported in writing without delay after discovery; a 14-day deadline for remedy is practical and documentable.

How-To

1. document: Take photos before and after drilling and note dates and measurements.
2. notice: Notify the landlord of planned changes or defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline.
3. time: Record deadlines for remediation and keep copies of all correspondence.
4. repair: Properly fill small holes or hire qualified help and keep invoices.
5. document: Keep all photos, receipts and correspondence for potential disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Official website

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Official Website