Inventarliste for furnished flats: what goes in
How to write an Inventarliste (inventory list) that backs up a deduction at move-out.
List every item by room, with its quantity, year of purchase, price and condition, and have the tenant sign the list. Photos from move-in show what each entry meant.
What goes in the Inventarliste?
List everything let with the flat that can go missing or break. Leave out consumables.
- 1
Furniture, with a description
List the sofa, beds, tables, chairs and wardrobes, each with a short description.
- 2
Appliances, with brand or model
List the fridge, washing machine, cooker and TV, each with its brand or model.
- 3
Kitchen items, with quantities
List the crockery, glasses, cutlery, pots and pans, each with a quantity.
- 4
Textiles
List the mattresses, duvets, pillows, curtains and rugs.
- 5
Year and price of each item
Note the year of purchase and the price of each item. You need both to work out the current value if the item is damaged.
- 6
Condition of each item
Say whether each item is new, used or marked, and exactly where the marks are.
Why this matters
Under § 538 BGB, the tenant does not have to pay for wear caused by normal use under the lease. You can only deduct for a piece of furniture if it is certain that the item was intact at move-in.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is an Inventarliste required?
No, an Inventarliste is not required. Without one, though, you have to prove in some other way what was let with the flat and in what condition.
What can I deduct for a damaged piece of furniture?
You can deduct the item's current value, meaning the price when new reduced for its age, not the cost of a new one. You cannot deduct for normal wear at all (§ 538 BGB).
Do crockery and small items belong on the list?
Yes, put crockery and small items on the list with quantities, such as “12 forks” or “4 pillows”. Leave out consumables like washing-up liquid or toilet paper.
Also in this topic: Inventarliste template for furnished flatsLetting furnished to students: lease, Kaution, handoverMöblierungszuschlag: how much surcharge is allowed
Is a tenant moving into your furnished flat soon?
Write the Inventarliste and record every room with its furniture before you hand over the keys. BildProof guides you through the flat and creates a structured condition report.
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