Handover day (Wohnungsübergabe)
- Insist on a handover protocol (Übergabeprotokoll) listing every existing scratch, stain, hole and defect, signed by both sides. Take dated photos of every room.
- Write down the meter readings (electricity, gas, water, heating meters) with meter numbers. You need them to register with suppliers and to avoid paying for the previous tenant.
- Count and list the keys. A lost key to a central locking system (Schließanlage) can cost thousands — your Haftpflicht should include Schlüsselverlust cover.
Utilities checklist
| Utility | Who arranges | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heating, water, rubbish, cleaning | Landlord, via Nebenkosten | Settled once a year (Chapter 12) |
| Electricity | You | No contract = Grundversorgung (expensive). Compare tariffs: watch the price per kWh, the base fee, a price guarantee of 12+ months, and no prepayment tariffs |
| Gas (if gas heating per flat) | You | Same as electricity |
| Internet | You | DSL/cable/fibre. Minimum term max. 24 months; after it ends you can cancel monthly |
| Rundfunkbeitrag | You | €18.36/month per household, regardless of devices. Exemption for students on BAföG and benefit recipients |
Typical electricity use: 1,500 kWh/year for one person and 2,500 kWh for two. At around €0.30–0.35/kWh in 2026, that's €40–75/month.
Furnishing on a budget
- Kleinanzeigen (used furniture, kitchens), IKEA, "Zu verschenken" (free to collect) groups, Sperrmüll days (Chapter 35).
- Lamps and curtains are rarely included. Hiring an electrician to fit lamps is common — strictly, only electricians should do electrical work.
- Washing machines often go in the cellar (Waschkeller) or bathroom. Check the space and connections before buying.
Names on letterbox and doorbell
Put your full name on the letterbox and doorbell on day one. Mail carriers don't deliver to unnamed boxes, and official letters (tax ID, permits, fines) get sent back to the sender.