Tenants: Secure Clean Handover in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, the clean handover ("besenrein") of your apartment is a central step when moving out. A tidy, documented handover reduces disputes with the landlord, secures the return of the deposit and meets legal obligations under tenancy law. This guide explains in plain language which concrete tasks are important before, during and after the handover, which official forms and statutes to watch, and how to prepare a legally sound handover protocol. With a practical checklist, concrete steps and notes on deadlines and evidence, you can prepare systematically even without legal knowledge. Read on for practical tips and key official links.

What does "besenrein" handover mean?

The everyday meaning of "besenrein" is: remove coarse dirt, sweep floors and clear visible debris. It generally does not require professional-level renovation but the rental contract may impose additional duties. Legally, refer to your rental agreement and obligations from the German Civil Code (BGB).^[1]

Before moving out: Checklist

• Carry out repairs or document damages.
• Take photos of the condition of all rooms and meter readings.
• Record meter readings and inform the landlord.
• Clean thoroughly or keep receipts for professional cleaning.
• Clarify deposit and operating cost settlement.
• Schedule the handover appointment and plan key transfer.

Official forms and legal basis

Important laws and regulations include the German Civil Code (BGB), especially tenancy provisions.^[1] For court actions, the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) applies.^[2] For operating cost settlement see the Operating Costs Regulation (BetrKV).^[3]

Examples of relevant forms and templates:

• Termination letter (rental contract) – use a written termination template and check deadlines and receipt.
• Handover protocol – record date, meter readings, damages and keys handed over.
• Eviction claim / court forms – if necessary, file claims at the competent local court (Amtsgericht).^[5]

Example application: You send a written termination with a clear date and schedule a handover appointment. On site you complete a handover protocol, both parties sign and keep a copy. Photos and the protocol serve as evidence if the handover is disputed.^[4]

FAQ

Does the apartment have to be handed over "besenrein"?

Most tenancy agreements require a clean handover, meaning coarse dirt must be removed. Extensive cosmetic repairs depend on the rental agreement.

What should a handover protocol contain?

Date and time, meter readings, existing damages, cleanliness status and number of keys handed over; ideally both parties sign the protocol.

How long are the deadlines for cosmetic repairs?

Deadlines can be contractually agreed; there are no general statutory deadlines in the BGB, so check your contract and seek legal advice if in doubt.

How-To

1. Arrange a handover appointment with the landlord in good time.
2. Prepare a handover protocol and bring it to the appointment.
3. Photograph all rooms, damages and meter readings before the handover.
4. Carry out small repairs yourself or document any damages.
5. Transfer keys and sign the protocol on site.
6. Request the deposit settlement in writing after moving out.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a - Gesetze im Internet
• [2] Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
• [3] Operating Costs Regulation (BetrKV) - Gesetze im Internet

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV) - Gesetze im Internet
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice - Information and forms
5. [5] Justice portal - information on courts and competence