Weekend Inventory Checklist for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a complete inventory list at move-in and move-out is important, especially when the handover takes place on a weekend. This guide explains precisely how to systematically check rooms, furniture and meter readings, photographically document damages, name witnesses and correctly complete handover protocols. We show which deadlines and forms are relevant, how to secure your deposit claims and when the local court is responsible. Practical templates, evidence-preservation tips and advice on communicating with the landlord help avoid later disputes. The steps are easy to implement even without legal knowledge and are oriented to the relevant provisions of the BGB and common procedures in German tenancy law cases.

Preparation before the Handover

Prepare in advance: note rooms and existing inventory, check furniture for signs of use and read all meter readings. Legal bases for tenant duties and maintenance can be found in the BGB.^[1]

• Arrange an appointment and set the duration.
• Walk through all rooms systematically and record the inventory.
• Mark damages and describe necessary repairs.
• Read meter readings and plan key handover.

Forms & Deadlines

Some forms are important for tenants: termination letters (BMJ sample) for formal terminations, the handover protocol for documentation and, if necessary, defect notifications. Observe deadlines for defect notifications and keep records of receipts.

• Termination letter (BMJ sample) – use this form if you need to terminate the tenancy; example: send termination by registered mail with return receipt, date and signature.^[3]
• Handover protocol – not legally prescribed but important as evidence; record condition, meter readings and signatures of both parties.
• Observe deadlines: report defects in writing as soon as possible to preserve claims.

In Case of Dispute: Preserving Evidence & Court

If disagreements arise, secure evidence systematically: photos, times, witnesses, protocols and repair receipts. Court procedures follow the civil procedure rules of the ZPO.^[2]

• Collect photos, protocols and witness statements.
• If necessary, an eviction or payment claim can be filed at the local court.^[2]
• Contact advisory services or the tenant advice office of your city.

FAQ

Do I need a written handover protocol?

A written protocol is strongly recommended because it documents condition, meter readings and signatures and later serves as evidence.

What if the handover is on a weekend and the landlord is not present?

Keep a detailed protocol, take photos and send the protocol to the landlord by email or registered mail; request confirmation.

How long can the landlord assert defects after moving out?

The landlord's claims for damages depend on general deadlines and the individual case; secure evidence and communicate promptly.

How-To

1. Clarify appointment and participants: landlord, tenant and possibly witnesses.
2. Room-by-room check: systematically note condition, inventory and meter readings.
3. Take photos: document each defect from multiple angles with the date visible.
4. Complete the handover protocol and have both parties sign it; keep copies.
5. If disputes arise, collect evidence and seek legal advice if necessary.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 ff. — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) — bmj.de

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 ff. — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de