Reclaim Your Security Deposit — Your Money After Moving Out
Create a professional letter to reclaim your security deposit. The AI drafts your demand with proper deadline under German Civil Code (BGB).
Important Tips
- The deposit may not exceed 3 months' net cold rent and can be paid in 3 monthly installments (Section 551 BGB)
- The landlord must keep the deposit separate from their own assets — in a separate savings account for cash deposits (Section 551(3) BGB)
- After the tenancy ends, the landlord has a reasonable review period (typically 3-6 months) to settle the deposit — after that you can demand repayment
- The landlord may only retain justified claims (outstanding rent, damages beyond normal wear, outstanding utility costs) from the deposit
Notice Period
After the tenancy ends, the landlord has a reasonable review period to settle the deposit, typically 3-6 months per case law. For utility cost claims, the landlord may retain a reasonable portion until the next billing. The repayment claim has a 3-year statute of limitations (Section 195 BGB).
How It Works
Describe
Describe in plain language what you want to write.
AI Creates Your Letter
Our AI generates a professional letter in DIN 5008 format.
Sign & Receive
Sign digitally and receive the finished PDF by email.
Frequently Asked Questions
When must the landlord return the deposit?
The landlord has a reasonable review period of typically 3-6 months after the tenancy ends. During this time, they check for claims against the tenant (damages, outstanding utilities). For the utility bill, they may retain a reasonable portion until settlement. The repayment claim has a 3-year statute of limitations (Section 195 BGB).
What can the landlord deduct from the deposit?
Only justified claims: outstanding rent, utility bill surcharges, and compensation for damage beyond normal wear and tear. Normal wear (e.g. a reasonable number of drill holes, light floor wear) may not be deducted. Cosmetic repairs may only be retained if a valid clause exists in the lease.
What if the landlord won't return the deposit?
Demand the deposit in writing with a 14-day deadline. After the deadline passes without payment, you can apply for a court payment order or file a lawsuit. The local court has jurisdiction for amounts up to 5,000 euros. Consulting a tenants' association or lawyer beforehand may be advisable.
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Create a professional letter to reclaim your security deposit. The AI drafts your demand with proper deadline under German Civil Code (BGB).
Reclaim security deposit