Tenant Guide: Furnished Rentals in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you face specific questions with furnished rentals: what belongs in the rental contract, how is the deposit handled, which service charges are permissible and what obligations does the landlord have for repairs? This checklist helps families in urban areas understand key contract points, collect legally valid evidence and meet deadlines. I explain plainly which clauses are common, when a rent reduction is possible, how to document defects and which authorities or courts are responsible. At the end you will find practical steps for submitting forms and sample texts for letters to the landlord. This helps tenants keep track of their rights and avoid costly mistakes.
Rental Contract & Contract Types
For furnished apartments there are often fixed-term or open-ended rental contracts as well as handover agreements for inventory. Make sure the rental period, inventory list, condition at handover and rules for cleaning and replacement are clearly stated in the rental contract. Legal foundations are found in the Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a.[1]
- Check the rental contract and inventory list (form).
- Clarify the deposit (deposit): amount, interest and repayment deadline.
- Agree on service charges and request receipts.
- Document the apartment condition with photos (photo) and a handover protocol.
Rights for Defects and Repairs
If defects occur, tenants should respond in writing, set deadlines and document communication. If necessary, a rent reduction can be considered; the statutory basis is in the BGB. Procedural rules for court actions are in the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO).[2] Rental disputes are usually handled by local courts (Amtsgericht) in the first instance.[3]
- Report defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline (deadline).
- Repairs: clarify who pays, landlord or tenant (repair).
- Document defects with dated photos (photo).
- Keep receipts and correspondence for possible lawsuits (form).
Templates and Official Forms
For terminations, formal defect notifications or lawsuits there are template texts and court forms. A common example is the termination letter (model termination) for ordinary termination by the tenant; use a clear addressee, date and your signature. For eviction suits and claims for arrears, justice authorities provide official forms. Authorities and courts publish official information and forms online.[4]
Practical Tips for Families in Urban Areas
In cities, housing changes and short notice periods are more common; negotiate flexible handover times for fixed-term contracts and clarify which furniture remains in the inventory. Agree in writing who is liable for wear and tear to furnished inventory and check special provisions on subletting or guests in the rental contract.
FAQ
- How high can the deposit be for furnished rentals?
- The deposit is generally up to three months' cold rent; the exact handling should be stated in the rental contract and is regulated in the BGB.[1]
- Are landlords obliged to replace furniture?
- The landlord must maintain the apartment in contractual condition; tenants are generally liable for damage they cause, while wear and tear is decided case by case.
- Where do I turn in rental disputes?
- Disputes are usually handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); information on procedures and competent courts can be found at the justice portal.[3]
How-To
- Read the rental contract carefully and check inventory and deadlines (form).
- Create a photo protocol at handover with date and witnesses (photo).
- Report defects in writing, set a deadline and document the response (form).
- If no agreement is reached, consider court steps at the local court (court).
- Submit receipts for deposit and service charge statements to support claims for refunds (deposit).
