If you’re renting in Germany and already have liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung), you’re already ahead of the game! It helps protect you financially from accidental damage, not just in everyday life, but also in the apartment you’re renting. Still, when it’s time to get your rental deposit (Kaution) back, things can sometimes get tricky.
To help you avoid any issues or delays, here’s a handy list of practical tips:
1. Understand what your liability insurance covers
Liability insurance typically covers accidental damage you cause to the rented property, like:
A crack in the sink
A dent in the floor from accidentally dropping something heavy
The cost of replacement keys after they’re lost
However, it won’t cover normal wear and tear, excessive damages, cleaning fees, mold, or glass breakage.
Tip: If you damage something, submit your claim as soon as the accident happens instead of waiting until you move out and these damages have been deducted from your deposit.
2. Document the property when you move in
It’s important to know what to do before you move in.
Do a thorough walkthrough with your landlord or property manager.
Take photos/videos of every room, and make a note of any existing damage or wear, no matter how small it may seem.
Ensure the “Übergabeprotokoll” (handover protocol) is detailed and signed by you and your landlord and includes any pre-existing damages.
Tip: Keep this document and any pictures you take safe; it’s your strongest defense against unfair deposit deductions.
3. Maintain the property responsibly
Clean regularly, especially tiles, windows, bathrooms and appliances.
Prevent mold by ventilating rooms properly especially bathrooms.
It’s common practice in Germany to open all the windows in the morning for a short while to ventilate the place, it’s so common that it has it’s own word, lüften.
Doing small things like making sure food or hair doesn’t go down the drains, using a mattress protector and putting felt pads under chairs and tables to prevent scratching the floor can go a long way in preventing unnecessary deposit deductions.
Tip: Landlords sometimes charge excessive cleaning fees when you move out, to make sure this doesn’t happen consider having frequent thorough cleanings from top to bottom and behind furniture.
4. Fix minor damage before moving out
Patch nail/screw holes, tighten loose door handles and repaint scuffed walls (if you're required to) as these are typically not covered under liability insurance.
Replace lost or damaged items if they're your responsibility and especially if they’re mentioned in the “Übergabeprotokoll” (handover protocol).
Remove all furniture and personal items unless you've agreed otherwise in advance with the landlord. Leaving behind items, even if they’re useful can be seen as "Müll" (trash) unless you’ve gotten written approval. You might be charged for disposal otherwise.
Tip: Always let your landlord know of any big damages as soon as they happen. Waiting until you move out to show them the big hole in the floor can make them angry and more likely to withhold your deposit for other damages.
5. Respect Kündigungsfrist (notice period) and contractual rules
Provide written notice in time (usually 3 months in advance).
Follow any requirements in your rental contract (Mietvertrag) about cleaning, repainting, or minor repairs "Schönheitsreparaturen".
Tip: Some landlords try to charge for repainting—check if your rental contract's painting clause is still valid under German law (some are outdated and void). If you're unsure, a tenant association (Mieterverein) can help - see tip 7.
6. Final walkthrough & handover protocol
Again, take photos/videos of the cleaned, empty apartment.
Be present for the final walkthrough and have the “Übergabeprotokoll” (handover protocol) at hand.
Make sure the handover protocol “Abnahmeprotokoll” is done.
Bring a witness to the handover, ideally someone neutral.
Get the protocol signed and request a timeline for your deposit return (legally it can take up to 6 months, but 1-3 months is typical).
Tip: Only sign the protocol if you fully agree with what’s written. If you don’t, you have the right to refuse to sign and note your disagreement instead. Don’t return your keys until everything is documented and signed.
7. Join a Mieterverein (Tenant Association)
It’s worth considering joining a Mieterverein (tenant association). These organizations offer support well beyond what liability insurance covers. They can provide you with legal advice, information, and help in dealing with landlords or rental disputes.
They can:
Review your rental contract and explain your rights
Help if your landlord makes unfair claims or delays returning your deposit
Provide legal support in case of conflicts
Draft official letters or communicate with your landlord on your behalf
Tip: It’s best to join early, some associations have a short waiting period before you can use their legal services.