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Basement (Keller)

Basements (Keller) in German real estate: sole ownership or common property? Usage, living space calculation, and frequently asked questions.

Property

Also known as: cellar, basement storage

Basement rooms under German condominium law can be either sole ownership (Sondereigentum) or common property (Gemeinschaftseigentum). When calculating living space under the German Living Space Ordinance (WoFlV), basement rooms are generally not counted as living space. Their use as residential space is only permitted under building law if certain conditions are met.

Related Terms

Individual Ownership (Sondereigentum)Common Property (Gemeinschaftseigentum)Usable Area vs. Living Space (Nutzfläche vs. Wohnfläche)Declaration of Division (Teilungserklärung)

Related articles

Articles from the CIRO Magazine covering this topic

Moving out: What tenants actually owe – cosmetic repairs, renovation & legal obligations in Germany
5 min read

Moving out: What tenants actually owe – cosmetic repairs, renovation & legal obligations in Germany

Painting, wallpapering, renovating – the list of potential tasks before moving out of a rented apartment ranges from simple to extensive. A look at the rental agreement provides starting points for the landlord's expectations. But what obligations does German case law actually impose on tenants? This guide clarifies whether a renovation obligation for tenants actually exists when handing over a rental apartment.

Denise SonnenscheinDenise Sonnenschein26.01.2026
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