Moving out of a Studentenwohnheim: Abnahme, deductions and Kaution
Which rules are different in a Studentenwohnheim (student residence), and how to protect your Kaution (deposit) when you move out.
In a student residence, the usual protection against termination does not apply, but you still do not pay for normal wear. Record your room when you move in and when you move out, and ask for receipts for every deduction.
What the residence checks at the Abnahme (move-out inspection)
Most residences check the room against a fixed list. Record exactly these points yourself.
- 1
Walls and ceiling
Record holes, stains, the paint and any sticky residue from posters.
- 2
Floor
Record the carpet, laminate or lino, with every stain and scratch.
- 3
The residence's furniture
Record the bed, mattress, desk, chair and wardrobe that belong to the residence.
- 4
Bathroom pod or kitchen
Clean the tiles, taps, fridge and cooker, then record them.
- 5
Windows and doors
Record the frames, handles, locks and blinds.
- 6
Keys and cards
Return all keys and cards, and get a receipt for them.
Why this matters
You do not pay for normal wear in a student residence either (§ 538 BGB). But if the residence deducts money, the only thing that helps you is what you can show about your room's condition when you moved in.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to redecorate when I move out of a Studentenwohnheim?
You only have to redecorate if your lease validly requires it. You do not pay for normal wear in a residence either (§ 538 BGB).
Do I get interest on my Kaution in a residence?
No, a student or youth residence does not have to pay interest on the Kaution (§ 551 Abs. 3 BGB). The cap of three months' rent still applies.
What can I do if the residence deducts too much from my Kaution?
Ask the residence for an itemised list with receipts, and object in writing to every item you think is wrong. Attach your record of the room from move-in and move-out.
Also in this topic: Handover protocol apps: how BildProof is differentDo I have to sign the Übergabeprotokoll?The Übergabeprotokoll in court: what counts as proof?Übergabeprotokoll template for tenantsAll guides: Handover & viewings
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