Tenants: Inventory List for Long Moves Germany
When moving long distances, the inventory list is a central document for tenants in Germany. It helps to record damages and missing items clearly at move‑in and move‑out. Many tenants make mistakes when reconciling, such as incomplete descriptions, missing photos or untimely handovers. This guide explains in practical terms how to avoid common mistakes, which forms and deadlines are relevant, and how to assert your rights if the landlord disputes changes. We show how to secure evidence, which official laws and courts can help in a dispute and how to correctly create and use an inventory protocol. This increases your chances of a fair settlement of the deposit. Practical and clear.
Why an inventory list matters
The inventory list documents condition and completeness of the apartment and protects tenants during long moves from unfounded claims by the landlord. Rights and duties of landlords and tenants are regulated in the German Civil Code (BGB)[1], so precise documentation is crucial.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- Incomplete descriptions without photos or measurements.
- No dates or missing signatures on the handover protocol.
- Undocumented pre-existing damages and missing comparison photos.
- Late or unclear key return during long-distance moves.
- Failure to report defects in writing and with proof.
- Lack of knowledge about deadlines for defect notification or remedies.
Documentation, evidence and deadlines
Secure photos, written handover protocols, emails and messages as evidence. In court disputes, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply[2], so timely and organized documentation is important.
If a dispute goes to court
For tenancy disputes, the local district court (Amtsgericht) is often competent in the first instance; higher appeals go to district courts and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) for precedent‑setting issues[3]. Present your documents in order and seek legal advice if needed.
FAQ
- What belongs in an inventory list?
- All fixtures and fittings, their condition, visible damages as well as photos, measurements and the time of recording.
- Can the landlord add items afterwards?
- Only with consent or convincing proof; documented handovers protect against unilateral additions.
- What deadline do I have to report defects?
- Defects should be reported without delay after discovery; specific deadlines may arise from contract or case law.
How-To
- Create a complete list of all rooms and inventory items before the move.
- Photograph each entry with date; store digital copies in two places.
- Arrange a fixed handover appointment with signatures in the protocol.
- Send a confirmation email after handover and document receipt confirmation.
- Keep all documents until the final deposit accounting is completed.
