Renting an Apartment in Germany: The Expat Guide (2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
What documents do I need to rent an apartment in Germany?
Landlords typically require: a valid passport or ID, proof of income (last 3 payslips or a signed employment contract), a SCHUFA credit report, and sometimes a rental history letter (Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung) from your previous landlord. Having all documents ready in a neat folder helps you move fast in a competitive market.
What is SCHUFA and how do I get it as a new arrival?
SCHUFA is Germany's credit reference agency. Most landlords request a SCHUFA report to check your payment history. You can request a free annual report at meineschufa.de. As a new arrival with no German credit history, your SCHUFA will be blank — offering a larger deposit (up to 3 months) or a guarantor (Bürgschaft) can compensate.
How much deposit (Kaution) do landlords charge in Germany?
German law caps the deposit at 3 months' cold rent (Kaltmiete). It must be held in a separate, interest-bearing account and returned within a reasonable time after you move out — typically 3 to 6 months — minus any legitimate deductions.
What is the difference between Kaltmiete and Warmmiete?
Kaltmiete (cold rent) is the base rent without utilities. Warmmiete (warm rent) includes a monthly advance for heating, water, and shared building costs (Nebenkosten). Always check which figure is advertised — Warmmiete is your true monthly cost and is typically 20–30% higher than Kaltmiete.
