Tenants: Drill Holes & Anchors in Germany

Tenants should carefully document which drill holes and anchors exist at move-in and move-out and how visible any damage is. In Germany, §§ 535–580a of the BGB regulate landlord and tenant duties regarding maintenance and cosmetic repairs^[1]. Clear photo documentation, dating, and direct notification to the landlord help avoid disputes and classify claims. In disputed cases, the competent local court often decides; check deadlines and evidence early^[2]. Important: small, usual drill holes are often considered normal wear, while larger holes or improper repairs may trigger cost obligations. In case of uncertainty, BGH case law can provide guidance^[3].

What counts in the handover report?

The handover report documents the apartments condition. Note the size, number and location of drill holes and any anchors, and whether holes were professionally closed or plaster damaged. Add dated photos and store them separately.

Small drill holes vs larger damage

• Small anchor holes for pictures are often considered normal use and are rarely charged as repair costs.
• Larger holes, multiple adjacent holes or plaster damage can constitute repairable damage.
• Document any repair attempts by previous tenants or the landlord to clarify responsibility.

Documentation: collect evidence

• Photograph all locations with dates and store the files securely.
• Send a written notification to the landlord with photo attachments.
• Set deadlines: give the landlord a reasonable time to respond or repair.

When can costs arise?

Costs may arise if there is significant repair work at move-out that goes beyond normal wear. Pay attention to concrete evidence provided by the landlord (estimates, invoices). If no concrete invoice is presented, request a detailed breakdown. Early communication and, if necessary, mediation or legal advice are recommended.

FAQ

Do I have to close drill holes when moving out?

Not always; small, usual holes are often tolerated. Larger damages usually must be professionally repaired or paid for.

How do I best document existing holes?

Photograph all spots, note measurements and locations, add the date, and send a written notice to the landlord.

Where do I turn in case of disputes about charges?

Disputes are typically addressed in the local court; mediation or advice can be useful beforehand.

How-To

1. Take photos of all drill holes with date stamps and store the files securely.
2. Send the landlord a written notification with photo attachments and a clear description.
3. Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days) for response or repair.
4. If the landlord does not respond or demands unjustified costs, consider the local court or legal counsel.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Information on courts and procedures – Justizportal
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions

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1. [1]Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2]Information on courts and procedures – Justizportal
3. [3]Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions