Everything You Need to Know About Renting a Flat in Germany (2025)

Germany has a highly competitive rental housing market, especially in its major cities. Finding a flat in metropolises like Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, and Frankfurt can require a great deal of time and patience. This guide will walk you through every step of the process, from the initial search and necessary documents to the rental contract and post-move-in procedures.

Websites and Alternative Methods for Your Search

There are multiple channels you can use to begin your search for a flat. The most popular methods are:

• Online Real Estate Portals: This is the most common way to search for a flat in Germany. The most popular sites include:
  • ImmobilienScout24: The largest and most comprehensive platform.
  • Immonet and Immowelt: Other major sites with extensive listings.
  • WG-Gesucht: Very popular, especially among students and young people looking for shared flats (Wohngemeinschaft – WG) or single apartments.
  • eBay Kleinanzeigen: You can find more affordable options and listings directly from landlords, but be cautious of potential scams.
• Real Estate Agents (Makler): Working with an agent can speed up the process but can be costly. According to the “Bestellerprinzip” (The Person Who Orders, Pays) law enacted in 2015, the party who hires the agent pays the commission. This means if the landlord hires the agent, you do not pay the commission.
• Local Newspapers: The real estate sections of local newspapers are still a viable method, especially in smaller cities and towns.
• Social Networks and Groups: You can find local groups on Facebook by searching for “Wohnung in [City Name]”. Following these groups can help you see newly posted listings.

Commonly Used Terms in Rental Listings and Their Meanings

German rental listings contain many abbreviations that can be confusing at first glance. Here are the most common terms you will encounter:

• KM (Kaltmiete): “Cold Rent.” This is the base rent for the property itself; it does not include utilities like heating, water, or waste disposal.
• NK (Nebenkosten): Additional Costs/Utilities. This includes charges for building cleaning, elevator maintenance, garden care, water, and trash collection fees. Electricity and internet are generally not included.
• WM (Warmmiete): “Warm Rent.” This is your total monthly payment. The formula is: Warmmiete = Kaltmiete + Nebenkosten.
• Kaution: Security Deposit. By law, it cannot exceed three months’ “Kaltmiete.”
• EBK (Einbauküche): Fitted Kitchen. If this is mentioned in the listing, it means the flat comes with a built-in kitchen (cabinets, stove, oven, etc.). If not, you may be renting a flat with an empty kitchen and will have to install your own.
• WG (Wohngemeinschaft): Shared Flat. A living arrangement where multiple people share a flat, usually with individual bedrooms but a shared kitchen and bathroom.
• qm (Quadratmeter): Square meter.
• Zi (Zimmer): Number of rooms.
• EG (Erdgeschoss): Ground floor.
• DG (Dachgeschoss): Attic/Top floor.
• 1. OG (Erstes Obergeschoss): First floor (the floor above the ground floor).

Documents Required to Rent a Flat

In Germany, landlords carefully select their tenants. When you apply, you are generally expected to submit an application folder (“Bewerbungsmappe”) containing the following documents. Preparing these in advance will give you a significant advantage.

• Mieterselbstauskunft (Tenant Self-Disclosure Form): A form provided by the landlord or agent where you state your personal and financial information (name, marital status, profession, net income, etc.).
• SCHUFA-Auskunft (SCHUFA Credit Report): This is one of the most important documents in Germany. It is a credit report that shows your financial history and payment habits. You can request it online from the official SCHUFA website. A positive SCHUFA record shows the landlord that you are a reliable tenant.
• Einkommensnachweise (Proof of Income): Usually, your pay stubs from the last three months are required. If you have just started a new job, your employment contract can also serve as proof. If you are a freelancer, a statement of income from your tax advisor or your last tax return will suffice.
• Kopie des Personalausweises/Reisepasses (Copy of ID Card/Passport): A copy of a valid identification document and, if applicable, your residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel).
• Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung (Certificate of No Rental Debt): A document from your current or previous landlord stating that you have no outstanding rent payments and have paid your rent regularly. If you are new to Germany, it’s normal not to have this; you can include a brief note explaining your situation.
• Bürgschaft (Letter of Guarantee): A lifesaver, especially for students or individuals with insufficient income. This is a document signed by someone living in Germany with a sufficient income (usually parents), guaranteeing they will cover all costs if you are unable to pay your rent.

Application, Viewing, and Contract

• Initial Contact: When contacting a landlord about a listing you like, write a short, clear, and professional email. Briefly introduce yourself (name, age, profession, who you will be moving in with) and request an appointment to view the flat.
• The Viewing (Besichtigung): Arrive on time for the appointment and have a well-groomed appearance. This makes a positive first impression on the landlord. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the property (e.g., type of heating, the building’s energy efficiency, neighbors). Be ready to present your prepared document folder at the end of the viewing.
• The Rental Contract (Mietvertrag): If you receive an offer, the next step is to sign the contract. Read it carefully before signing. Be sure to ask about any points you don’t understand. Pay close attention to details like the security deposit (Kaution) amount, what the additional costs (Nebenkosten) cover, and the condition in which the flat must be returned (e.g., painted/unpainted).
• The Security Deposit (Kaution): Never pay the deposit into the landlord’s personal account or in cash. By law, the landlord must deposit it into a special rental deposit account (Mietkautionskonto) opened in your name. This ensures your money is secure.
• Handover Protocol (Übergabeprotokoll): When you receive the keys, walk through the flat with the landlord and fill out a handover protocol. Document all existing defects (scratches on the wall, a cracked tile, etc.) in this protocol, complete with photos. This document is crucial for getting your full deposit back when you move out.

What to Do After Moving In

Congratulations, you’ve signed the contract and have the keys! But your work in Germany isn’t finished yet:

• Anmeldung (City Registration): You are legally required to register your new address at the local citizens’ office (Bürgeramt/Einwohnermeldeamt) within two weeks of moving in. For this, you will need a document from your landlord called the “Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.”
• Electricity, Gas, and Internet: These services are generally not included in the rent. You must sign up for your own electricity, and if necessary, gas and internet contracts as soon as you move in. You can use comparison sites like Check24 or Verivox to find the best rates.
• Rundfunkbeitrag (Broadcasting Fee): Every household in Germany is required to pay a monthly broadcasting fee to finance public broadcasting. You will receive payment information by mail shortly after you register your address.

Renting a flat in Germany is a marathon that requires patience and good organization. By preparing your documents in advance, understanding the process, and being proactive, you can significantly increase your chances of finding your dream home.