Flat handover

Handover at move-in and move-out

At the start of a tenancy, you hand over the agreed flat, its furnishings and all necessary access. Test the keys with the tenant, go through any visible defects and record the meter readings together. Sort out anything unclear on the spot, while you can both see it.

When a tenancy ends, § 2292 of the Civil Code ties the surrender of the flat to you receiving the keys and nothing preventing you from accessing and using it. The flat is returned allowing for normal wear and tear. So don't judge a floor worn down over several years the same way as a freshly damaged door.

What to go through together

Agree on a date and prepare the handover protocol. Walk through the rooms, the furnishings and their condition, the number of keys and fobs, and the meter readings including meter numbers. Take clear photos and note what you agree on and what remains disputed. Both parties should receive a copy of the record and its attachments.

The handover is a real event; the handover protocol merely documents it. Receiving the keys also doesn't mean all money matters are settled or that the supplier has already terminated the electricity contract.

When you have the keys but not yet the utility statement

A quick example: the tenant returns the keys on moving out, the flat is accessible and you record its condition together. But the annual service charge statement isn't ready yet. Note this in the protocol separately from any defects found. The same applies to returning the security deposit (the law calls it a “jistota”): don't use the signature to present an estimate of a future shortfall as a proven debt.