Wohnungsbesichtigung Checklist PDF: Your Guide to Stress-Free Apartment Viewings

Discover the essential checklist for a successful apartment viewing in Germany. Learn what to bring, what questions to ask, and which criteria matter most for choosing your ideal home.

What should you bring to an apartment viewing?

For a successful viewing, bring key documents and tools: a checklist, your SCHUFA report, your ID, and a camera. Bring your SCHUFA report since landlords often ask for it to assess your creditworthiness. A camera helps you capture details you might otherwise miss during the visit.

What questions should you ask during a viewing?

Ask about the cold rent and any utility costs, to understand the total cost including warm rent. Ask about lease terms, such as the deposit amount, which under Section 551 BGB may not exceed three months' cold rent. Also ask about pet policies, renovation rules, and neighbourhood characteristics.

What are the most important criteria when apartment hunting?

The most important criteria are location, rent, size, condition, and amenities. Location affects your daily life, so consider proximity to work or schools. Also assess the condition for necessary repairs and check whether amenities like parking or a balcony are included.

For what reasons can a landlord view the apartment with advance notice?

Landlords can view the apartment for repairs, inspections, or to show it to prospective new tenants, but must notify you in advance. Make sure such visits are scheduled at a time that works for you.

Bottom line

Apartment viewings are a decisive step in finding your ideal home. Good preparation with a checklist and asking the right questions make the process significantly easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you bring to an apartment viewing?

A checklist, SCHUFA report, ID, and camera.

What questions should I ask during a viewing?

Ask about rental costs, contract terms, the deposit amount, and neighbourhood characteristics.

What's the maximum legal deposit?

No more than three months' cold rent under Section 551 BGB.

For what reasons can a landlord view the apartment?

For repairs, inspections, or to show it to new tenants, each with advance notice.

For how to apply for a WG online, see WG application guide. For your rights and obligations around move-out viewings, see tenant obligations guide. Join Waitly and simplify your apartment search.