The German housing market
Finding a suitable apartment or room is one of the first important steps for a successful start to your studies or research. On this page, we provide you with a compact overview of the German housing market: Which forms of rent there are, which costs you should expect and what you need to look out for in contracts. So you can start your search well prepared - and if you have any further questions, our Accommodation Team will be happy to help you.
Rights and obligations
As a tenant in Germany, you have both rights and obligations. These include reading the tenancy agreement carefully before signing it, complying with the terms of the tenancy agreement, paying the rent on time and observing the house rules. In Germany, rent is generally paid monthly, usually at the beginning of the month, by bank transfer to the account specified by the landlord. In addition to the basic rent (cold rent), there are often additional costs, which are calculated either as a lump sum or as an advance payment with an annual statement.
If you have any questions about your tenancy agreement or need support with tenancy law problems, we will be happy to refer you to the relevant advice centers!
Problems with tenancy agreement, deposit & co.
For specific tenancy law problems such as rental agreements, deposit repayments or other disputes, we recommend that students contact a lawyer, the NRW consumer advice center or, if you are a member, the local tenants' association if you are a member. Tenants' associations usually charge an annual membership fee, offer comprehensive support with tenancy law issues, represent their members in dealings with landlords and help with checking tenancy agreements, utility bills and notices of termination, among other things.
Security deposit
In Germany, it is common for landlords to require a rental deposit before moving in. This serves as security for any damage to the apartment or outstanding rent payments. The amount of the deposit may not exceed three net cold rents. Tenants have the right to pay the deposit in three equal monthly installments, with the first installment due at the beginning of the tenancy.
Timely payment of the deposit is mandatory. If the deposit is not paid, the landlord can, under certain circumstances, terminate the tenancy agreement without notice. International researchers and students should therefore ensure that they pay the deposit on time or, if necessary, discuss possible alternatives with the landlord.
In Germany, the deposit may not be offset against the final rent payment, but remains on deposit until the apartment has been properly handed over. Once the tenancy has ended and the apartment has been returned, the deposit is usually refunded within six months, provided there are no damages or outstanding claims. If the landlord discovers damage to the apartment or there are still outstanding utility bills, he can retain a reasonable portion of the deposit until these have been resolved. To avoid disputes, it is advisable to record the condition of the apartment on moving in and out together with the landlord in a handover protocol.
Other costs
In Germany, rent in many cases only covers the use of the apartment. Contracts for electricity, internet and possibly gas often have to be concluded separately. It is advisable to take care of these services at an early stage. You can often get tips on this from the previous tenant, especially if you are moving into an apartment that is already in use.
All households registered in Germany are obliged to pay the broadcasting fee, regardless of whether they use a television or radio set. After moving in, you should therefore register at www.rundfunkbeitrag.de to avoid possible additional payments or reminder fees.
Notice periods
- For tenants: Usually three months to the end of the month.
- For landlords: Termination is only possible with a justified reason, e.g., personal use.
Reason for termination | Term |
| Personal use by the tenant | 3 - 9 months (depending on the rental period) |
| Breach of contract | Possible without notice in individual cases |
| Termination by tenant | Usually 3 months to the end of the month |
Accommodation Counselling
Office hours: Mon-Fri 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.
E-mail: accommodationtu-dortmundde
Appointments: By appointment for a personal consultation
Important note: The Accommodation Counselling is for your general orientation and does not provide legal advice. If you have specific questions about tenancy law, please contact the tenancy law advice service of the Dortmund Consumer Advice Center, the tenant advice service of the AStA of TU Dortmund University or consult a specialist lawyer.