FAQ Relocation

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Questions & answers about renting housing in Germany

Experience shows that anyone planning a move has many questions.
In our FAQ list we have compiled some information worth knowing about important topics:

Wohnraumsuche Donath Moving & Relocation

The planning and living space inspection

Approximately 6 to 8 weeks prior to the planned move-in date.

We use the established web pages where most of the properties are advertized. Beyond that, we have a network of real estate agents and landlords.

We recommend a viewing during daylight hours. The recommended days are weekdays in order to get a realistic impression of the surrounding area, i.e. traffic, noise, silence etc.

Rental contract / termination / rent deposit

Generally, lease negotiations take 5 to 10 work days.

The owner usually requires, at the minimum, a proof of identity, proof of income and possibly a credit report for Germany (Schufa-Auskunft).

Yes. Generally the deposit is 2 to 3 times of the monthly net rent. The deposit has to be in the owner’s account prior to or on the day of handover.

Most landlords require a minimum lease period of 1 or 2 years for unfurnished properties.
For most furnished properties, the minimum lease period is 3 to 6 months.
Both depend on the individual landlord and the city in Germany.

Unless otherwise agreed in the lease, the legal cancellation period for rental properties is 3 months towards the end of a month. The cancellation has to be submitted in writing and with personal signature (letter, recommended to be sent by registered mail – “Einwurf Einschreiben”).

Furnished or unfurnished?

A “furnished” rental property is usually equipped with furniture, small and large electric appliances, partially also with towels and dinnerware.
The individual amenities will be noted in an inventory list during the handover.

An „unfurnished“ rental property is completely empty (except for sanitary installations in the bathrooms also not included are the light fixtures, curtains, washer, dryer, etc.). In major cities, more and more owners are willing to install a built-in kitchen, but this normally comes with an increase in the monthly net rent.

Further interesting facts

It is highly recommendable that tenants set up a private liability insurance (if needed, including key loss) and a household goods insurance.

Please contact your landlord or the authorized property management company.

The German electrical standard is 220 volts / 50 cycles. It is recommendable to check prior to the move, if the appliances from abroad will work.

It is very important to mention any pets before the start of the home search. The number of pets, along with the type and size will be important information to give.
Small pets, such as caged birds, hamster etc. may be kept without permission of the landlord. For all other pets, a written approval from the landlord is needed. The approval has to be given in the lease contract, i.e. for dogs and cats.

We are happy to advise you:

+49 (0) 61 71 – 987 99 70

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