Handover Protocol (Übergabeprotokoll)
Handover protocol (Übergabeprotokoll) for rental apartments in Germany: why it is important, what it must contain, and tips for tenants and landlords.
Legal
§ 546 BGB
Also known as: property handover report, move-in inspection report, condition report
The handover protocol (Übergabeprotokoll) documents the condition of an apartment at move-in and move-out under German tenancy law. It should record the condition of all rooms, defects, meter readings, number of keys, and fixtures. Although not legally required, it is strongly recommended as evidence in case of disputes. (§ 546 BGB)