Tenants: Secure Furnished Rentals in Germany
Many students look for furnished apartments in German urban areas, but tenants should be cautious when drafting contracts. This article explains in practical terms how you as a tenant in Germany can securely agree furnished rental contracts, which clauses are common and what rights you have in case of defects, deposit issues or terminations. We clearly explain which mandatory information must be included in the contract, how to document renovation or inventory lists and which deadlines to observe. In addition, we show which official forms exist, when to involve the local court and how to systematically collect evidence to strengthen your position. The goal is to give you clear action steps so that you can decide safely and informed as a tenant.
What tenants should watch for in furnished contracts
In furnished rental contracts, inventory lists, duration of the provision and renovation obligations are particularly important. Tenancy law in Germany regulates many duties of landlord and tenant.[1]
- Create and sign an inventory list (record): Count and photograph furniture and condition, and have the landlord sign.
- Clarify the deposit (deposit): Agree on the amount, interest and repayment deadline in writing.
- Note duration and notice periods (form): Short sublet periods or fixed-term contracts should be clearly regulated.
- Document repairs and defects (repair): Report defects in writing with photos and record deadlines for remedy.
Forms, deadlines and court steps
For court actions, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply; cases about eviction or rent reduction usually run at the local court or in appeal at the regional court.[2] Important landmark decisions of the Federal Court of Justice influence the interpretation of clauses and tenant rights.[3]
- Prepare a termination letter (form): Clearly state dates, signature and reasons; send by registered mail or hand over with confirmation of receipt.
- File an eviction claim (court): If necessary, the landlord files a claim at the local court; as a tenant you should be able to prove payments and evidence.
- Secure evidence (evidence): Collect photos, witnesses, handover protocols and SMS/emails.
Practical templates and examples for tenants
Example: Wording for an inventory list: "Inventory as per Appendix A, condition at handover: acceptable/minor signs of use." Note the handover date and both signatures. Example termination sentence from the tenant: "I hereby terminate the tenancy as of DD.MM.YYYY in compliance with the contractually agreed notice period." For the deposit repayment: agree on a deadline after move-out for the settlement and repayment.
FAQ
- Does general tenancy law also apply to furnished apartments?
- Yes. The basic rules of tenancy law also apply to furnished rentals; special regulations may be found in individual contract clauses.
- How can I report defects correctly?
- Report defects immediately in writing, attach photos and set a deadline for remediation; keep copies.
- What to do if the landlord does not return the deposit?
- Send a written reminder, set a deadline and consider filing a lawsuit at the competent local court with supporting documents.
How-To
- Review the contract (form): Read clauses on duration, inventory and costs carefully.
- Document inventory (record): Create a signed list with photos at handover.
- Arrange deposit (deposit): Agree in writing on amount, account and repayment deadline.
- Report damages (repair): Report immediately in writing and set a deadline; collect evidence.
- Inform the court in case of dispute (court): If necessary, file a claim at the local court with all documents.
