Deposit Interest Credits: Tenant Guide for Germany

When moving out, many tenants in Germany want clarity about how interest credits on the deposit account are calculated and paid out. Banks calculate interest differently, landlords may offset interest amounts against outstanding claims, and misunderstandings often arise in the final statement. This practical guide explains in simple steps what rights you have as a tenant, which deadlines apply and what evidence is useful. You will learn how to check bank statements, send a formal request to the landlord and involve the competent local court or advisory services if necessary. Concrete template letters and references to relevant legislation help you secure and enforce your repayment.

How deposit interest credits arise

Interest on the security deposit arises when the landlord places the deposit in an interest-bearing account or a separate deposit contract exists. The legal basis for duties and claims in the tenancy is found in the BGB, in particular regarding the landlord's obligations and return claims.^[1] Banks often book interest annually; what matters is the agreed period and interest rate or the customary market level.

What tenants should check

• Check bank statements from the date of deposit to the final payment.
• Verify interest calculation: rate, period and compounding.
• Document the handover protocol, key return and any deductions.
• Observe deadlines: request the final statement promptly.
• Send a formal written request to the landlord and set a deadline for payment.
• If disagreements persist, consider filing a lawsuit at the competent local court.^[2]

FAQ

Who calculates the interest on the deposit account?

The bank calculates the interest according to its contractual terms; the landlord must disclose the credits and provide a transparent statement.

How long does the landlord have to provide the final statement?

There is no fixed statutory deadline, but a reasonable period of weeks to a few months is customary; courts decide based on individual circumstances.^[3]

What documents do I need to claim the interest credit?

Collect bank statements, the tenancy agreement, the handover protocol and any written communication with the landlord; a simple template letter requesting payment is usually sufficient.

How-To

1. Collect: prepare bank statements, the tenancy agreement and the handover protocol.
2. Calculate: determine the period and the provable interest earned on the deposit account.
3. Write: send the landlord a written request with an itemised list of amounts and a clear deadline.
4. If no response: consider filing at the competent local court.^[2]
5. Get advice: use local advisory services or tenant legal advice if unsure.
6. Finish: check the payment and keep records.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Amtsgericht — Zuständigkeit und Verfahren — justiz.de
• [3] Case law on tenancy law — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Amtsgericht — Zuständigkeit und Verfahren — justiz.de
3. [3] Case law on tenancy law — bundesgerichtshof.de