Living in Germany - Accommodation

More than half of all Germans live in rented accommodation, which is normally let unfurnished. It can be difficult to find cheap accommodation, particularly in conurbations. For those who come to Germany alone and are prepared to live with other people, Wohngemeinschaften (shared flats) are a good way of living cheaply and getting to know people at the same time. In many university towns there are also Mitwohnzentrale (accommodation agencies) that can provide flats for a limited period of time on payment of a commission.

In Munich rents are higher than average. An attractive newly built flat in the Bavarian capital costs on average EUR 11.75 a square metre. In Bremen, on the other hand, a comparable flat can be had for EUR 7. By far the cheapest net rents exclusive of heating are paid by tenants in the Federal Länder in eastern Germany. In Dresden the price per square metre is only EUR 5.60. These figures refer to net rents exclusive of heating. You must therefore add on overheads and your own consumption of water, electricity and heating.

In most cases landlords expect a one-off deposit of two to three months' rent in addition to the actual rent. This serves as security for any damage which has to be repaired after the flat is vacated. If you enter into a long-term or open-ended tenancy agreement, the deposit should be covered by a saving agreement in favour of the landlord. In that way you do not lose any interest. When you vacate the accommodation, you have your renewed power of disposal over the relevant passbook confirmed in writing by your landlord. The tenancy agreement also governs the issue of cosmetic repairs, often also lays down provisions on graduated rents, and sets out periods of notice. In the event of doubt, either party may refer to this agreement. In all large towns and cities there are tenants' associations to which you can turn for advice.

Text last edited on: 11/2006

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2007
Reproduction is authorised.