Finding and renting an apartment in Germany can present surprising challenges for foreigners. There are important points to keep in mind, such as rental rates, utility costs, security deposits, broker fees and more.
Understanding these aspects is crucial to avoid unpleasant surprises. In this blog article, you’ll learn what to look for to successfully find an apartment in Germany.
Apartment size
The size of an apartment is expressed in square meters (sq m). Note that the total area figure includes both living space and ancillary areas such as hallways and bathrooms.
Additional expenses: “Nebenkosten”
In addition to rent, there may be additional utilities such as heating, water, electricity and garbage disposal. Find out in advance how much the utilities will be.
Deposit: “Kaution”
In Germany, landlords often require a security deposit. The deposit is usually two to three months’ rent and is refunded at the end of the tenancy, minus any damages.
Broker’s fees: “Maklergebühren”
If you find an apartment through a real estate agent, you may incur a brokerage fee. This fee is usually two months’ rent plus VAT.
Self-disclosure: “Selbstauskunft”
Landlords often want information about potential tenants to check their creditworthiness. A self-report with information about income, employment, and previous living situations may be required.
Housing inspection
It is common for landlords or brokers to conduct a joint apartment inspection with all prospective tenants prior to placement. Register well in advance and be on time for the viewing appointment.
Certificate of freedom from rental debt: “Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung”
Landlords may require certification that you had no rent debt in your previous apartments. You can get this certificate from your previous landlord or property management company
Cancellation deadlines: “Kündigungsfristen”
Inform yourself about the notice periods in Germany. As a rule, the statutory notice period is three months to the end of the month
Tenant rights
Know your rights as a tenant. In Germany, there are comprehensive tenant protection laws that protect your interests as a tenant.
Furnishings
Consider whether the apartment is rented furnished or unfurnished. Unfurnished apartments are usually the norm, and you’ll need to bring your own furnishings.
Pets
Some landlords do not allow pets in their apartments. Check in advance if pets are allowed if you own a pet or want to get one.
Parking situation
If you own a car, ask about parking near the apartment. Some apartments have their own parking, while others may require you to rent separately.
Washing machine
Some apartments or apartment complexes in Germany have communal laundry rooms that contain one or more washing machines for tenants to use together. These washing machines are often provided and maintained by the property management or an external service provider. If an apartment has such a communal laundry room, it is not necessary to purchase your own washing machine. Use of the washing machines in the communal laundry room is usually included in the rent or there is a small additional cost.
Painting
When moving out, the tenant is usually not required to paint the apartment, unless this was expressly agreed in the lease. If the tenant leaves the apartment in proper condition and has not made any excessive damage or changes, he can usually leave an unpainted apartment
Redemption payment: “Ablösezahlung”
Sometimes previous tenants demand an additional payment. In exchange, they leave fixtures or furnishings in the apartment. The redemption payment is used primarily for those parts of the apartment that have increased the value of the apartment sustainably, but can not be taken by the previous tenants. This includes, for example, a new fitted kitchen or the whirlpool bathtub.
As you can see, there are many rules to follow in Germany when you want to rent an apartment. It is important to note that this is general information that may vary depending on your individual situation and location. It is advisable to always check the specific circumstances and seek professional advice if necessary.
