Tenant Guide: Furnished Rentals in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know the specific rules for furnished rentals, especially in urban areas and when you live with children. Furnished apartments raise questions about the lease, inventory list, deposit and liability for damage. This guide explains in practical terms which contract clauses tenants should watch for, how to document defects, what rights exist for rent reductions and how families can negotiate safe, child‑friendly solutions. I show step‑by‑step which forms and deadlines are relevant and how to proceed in disputes — up to contacting the local court or a conciliation body. The goal is that you as a tenant in Germany can make clear decisions and shape your living situation to be family‑friendly.
Rights and Duties
As a tenant you have statutory protections and duties: The landlord must hand over the dwelling in the agreed condition and remedy defects; the legal basis is in the German Civil Code (BGB).[1]
In most cases, the BGB protects basic standards of habitability.
Lease and Inventory
For furnished apartments clear agreements are important: a precise inventory list, rules on liability for furniture, the rental period and operating costs. Read the lease carefully and clarify ambiguities before signing.
- Create an inventory list at handover and take photos.
- Review the lease: fixed term, inventory liability, utilities clause.
- Clarify the security deposit amount and return conditions.
Prepare a handover protocol with photos and dates.
Defects, Rent Reduction and Repairs
If defects occur, notify the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy. Documentation helps with rent reduction claims and later legal disputes.[1]
Respond within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
- Send a written defect report with a deadline for repair.
- Collect photos, the inventory list and communications.
- Check small repairs and who is contractually responsible.
Disputes, Lawsuits and Courts
If a legal dispute arises, the Code of Civil Procedure regulates the process, and tenancy matters are typically handled by the local court (Amtsgericht).[2][3] Before filing suit, a final written demand is recommended.
Well documented defects and protocols increase your chances of success in court.
- Try mediation or conciliation with the landlord first.
- Gather evidence: photos, messages, invoices.
- If necessary: file a claim at the local court and follow the procedural rules.
FAQ
- Can the landlord charge significantly more rent for a furnished apartment?
- Yes, furnished apartments can command higher rent; however rent increases and reasonableness are limited by BGB rules and local comparative rents.
- What does an inventory list contain?
- An inventory list describes all furniture and appliances with condition and quantity; it forms the basis for liability issues at handover.
- How do I request a rent reduction due to no heating?
- Send a written defect report with a deadline for repair, document the defect and, if appropriate, reduce the rent proportionally or initiate legal action.
How-To
- Check the lease: term, inventory liability, notice periods.
- Create a handover protocol: photos, meter readings and inventory list.
- Report defects in writing and set a deadline for repairs.
- Collect records: messages, invoices, photos as evidence.
- If necessary: file a claim at the local court and follow the Code of Civil Procedure requirements.
