German for renting an apartment
Phrases and vocabulary for apartment viewings, rental contracts, deposits, and follow-up questions for the landlord or property management.
Prepare a folder of documents
Bring a folder with your Schufa, salary slips, and ID to the viewing. It signals to landlords that you are serious.
Ask about utilities and heating
Utility costs can vary widely. Ask about last year's actual amounts, not just the flat rate in the contract.
Document any defects in writing immediately
Do a handover protocol with the landlord on move-in day. Damages and defects must be recorded before the contract starts.
Give notice only by registered post
Terminating a Mietvertrag is only valid in writing with a handwritten signature. Send it by registered post with acknowledgement of receipt so that you can prove the exact date of delivery — this is crucial for correctly observing the three-month Kündigungsfrist.
Arranging a viewing appointment
You are calling about a listing.
Hello, I am calling about your apartment listing. When would a viewing be possible?
Should I send documents in advance?
Asking questions during the viewing
You are walking through the apartment with the landlord.
How old are the windows, and has the heating been replaced recently?
Is there a basement or a parking spot?
Clarifying contract details
You want to check the rental contract before signing.
I would like to read the contract in peace first. Can we speak again tomorrow?
Is there a minimum tenancy period?
Reporting a defect in writing
After moving in you have noticed that the bathroom tap is dripping and want to inform the landlord.
Dear Ms Müller, I would like to draw your attention to the fact that the bathroom tap has been dripping since my move-in day. I request that the defect be repaired within two weeks.
Please confirm receipt of this message and let me know when a tradesperson can visit.
How do I say I would like to rent the apartment?
Say: I would very much like to rent the apartment. Could you send me the rental contract?
How do I ask about the exact utility costs?
Ask: What were the average utility costs last year? Concrete amounts help more than just the flat rate.
How do I clarify what happens at the end of the tenancy?
Ask: What notice period applies, and how is the deposit returned at the end? It is wise to ask in writing.
What exactly is the Mieterselbstauskunft and must I fill it in?
The Mieterselbstauskunft is a form on which applicants provide details about income, employment, and previous tenancies. There is no legal obligation to complete it, but applicants who skip it are often passed over. Providing false information can lead to the rental agreement being contested.
How large may the Kaution be and when do I get it back?
Under § 551 of the German Civil Code the Kaution may not exceed three months of net cold rent. You may pay it in three equal monthly instalments. After moving out, the landlord generally has three to six months to return the deposit or justify any deductions.
How do I report a defect correctly so that I am not held liable?
Always report defects in writing by e-mail or letter so that you have proof. Describe the defect precisely and set a reasonable deadline for repair. Attach photos as evidence. If you fail to report a defect and it worsens, you may be held responsible for the additional damage.
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