Tenants in Germany: Removing Built-ins Pros & Cons

As a tenant in Germany, you may face the question of whether built-ins such as kitchens, shelves or fitted wardrobes must be removed when moving out or may remain. This decision affects your deposit, possible follow-up claims and the relationship with your landlord. The following text clearly explains the contractual basics, how to agree on removal, and which deadlines and proofs are important. You will also learn when the landlord's consent is required and which steps are common in court disputes. The aim is to provide practical instructions so you as a tenant can confidently and constructively assert your rights in Germany.

When is removal required?

Basically, the rental contract determines whether built-ins must be removed. Without a clear regulation, restoration can be demanded; in unclear cases the local court decides.^[2] The German Civil Code regulates the duties of landlord and tenant in the tenancy relationship.^[1]

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Removal can restore the original condition and avoid subsequent claims.
• Landlords often accept adapted solutions in mutual agreements.
• Removed built-ins can make the apartment more attractive to new tenants.
• A written release can prevent later disputes.

Cons

• Removal can be costly and affect the deposit.
• Permanently installed kitchens often incur high removal costs.
• Without landlord consent there is a risk of legal disputes.
• Time and scheduling can delay your move-out.

Concrete agreements at move-out

Practically, a written agreement is recommended that regulates scope, deadlines, cost allocation and proof obligations. Agree on deadlines for removal and an inspection by the landlord; record whether professional tradespeople are required. If no agreement is possible, court clarification may be necessary.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to remove built-in kitchens when I move out?

Not automatically; it depends on the rental agreement and arrangements. If there is no regulation, the landlord can demand removal.

Who pays for the removal?

That depends on the agreement; without an arrangement the tenant can be obliged to restore and costs may be covered from the deposit.

Where do I turn in case of dispute?

In disputes, the local court decides in the first instance. For fundamental legal questions there are appeals to the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

How-To

1. First check your rental agreement for clauses on removal.
2. Talk to the landlord and record a written agreement.
3. Create a handover record with photos as evidence of condition and work.
4. In case of dispute: file a lawsuit at the local court if necessary and use ZPO deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 – Tenancy. Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection.
2. [2] Information on local courts – Justice portal.
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice – decisions in tenancy law.