What this is about
Your rental contract (Mietvertrag) covers almost everything about your flat: rent, utility costs, deposit (Kaution), notice period and house rules. Only sign once you understand what's in it.
- Ask to read the contract calmly beforehand.
- Get unclear points explained before you sign.
- Keep a signed copy – you'll often need it, for example for the Anmeldung.
What should be in the contract
Check these points especially before signing.
- Names of all tenants and the exact flat
- Base rent (Kaltmiete), advance utility payment, and total rent
- Start of the tenancy, fixed-term or open-ended
- Deposit (Kaution) and notice periods
- What you have to pay or handle yourself, for example small repairs
Deposit (Kaution)
A deposit is common but limited. It can be at most three months' base rent (Nettokaltmiete), and you're allowed to pay it in three equal monthly instalments. The first instalment is due at the start of the tenancy.
- Nettokaltmiete means: rent without utility costs.
- Don't pay the deposit in cash without a receipt.
- You get the deposit back after moving out, as long as there are no valid claims outstanding.
Utility costs and billing
Usually you pay a monthly advance for heating, water and other running costs (Nebenkosten). Once a year there's a settlement (Abrechnung). It must reach you at the latest twelve months after the end of the billing period.
- You could get a top-up bill or money back.
- Check the statement and ask if something is unclear.
- Electricity and internet are usually not included – you sign up for those yourself.
Important to know
Fraud also occurs when looking for a flat. These points help you recognise it.
- Never transfer money before you've seen the flat and have a contract.
- Make a handover record (Protokoll) with photos of any damage and meter readings.
- Don't sign anything you haven't read – not even under time pressure.
- For disputes or unclear clauses, tenants' associations (Mieterverein) and the Verbraucherzentrale can help.
Concrete steps
- Read the contract in advance and clarify unclear points.
- Check the base rent, utility costs and deposit carefully.
- Sign the contract and keep a copy.
- Create a handover record with meter readings.
- Register your address (Anmeldung) at the Bürgeramt.
Terms on this page
Tap a word. The terms stay in German so you recognise them in letters and forms.
This is orientation, not legal advice. Please check the details at the official source.
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