Rental deposit
Short definition
The security deposit is a security payment from the tenant to the landlord to secure claims arising from the tenancy. It may not exceed a maximum of three months' cold rent (excluding utilities) and must be invested separately from the landlord's personal assets.
Rental Deposit: Brief Definition
The rental deposit is closely linked to the apartment handover inspection and the utility bill statement and is often a central point of dispute. Delays occur primarily when damages or outstanding costs are not clearly documented.
Example
A lack of documentation during the apartment handover inspection often means that landlords cannot prove damages and must return the deposit in full.
When Is the Landlord Allowed to Withhold the Deposit?
The deposit may be withheld if there are legitimate claims, such as for damages or outstanding utility costs. Normal wear and tear is excluded from this.
When Is the Rental Deposit Repaid?
Repayment is usually made within 3 to 6 months after moving out, as soon as all claims have been reviewed.
Practical Context
The rental deposit is closely linked to the apartment handover inspection and the utility bill statement and is often a central point of dispute.
Further Links
→ Glossary article: Apartment Handover Inspection
→ Glossary article: Utility Bill Statement
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More terms
Full glossary
Apartment handover
The apartment handover refers to the formal return of a rental apartment by the tenant to the landlord upon termination of the tenancy. It includes a joint inspection, the documentation of the property's condition in a handover protocol, and the return of all keys. The objective is to record the state of the apartment in a legally secure manner.
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Rent control
The rent control cap is a legal regulation that limits the rent amount when re-letting in certain regions. The goal is to prevent excessive rent increases. Misinterpretations lead to legal risks and potential claims for repayment.
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Service charge statement
The service charge statement is the annual comparison of the operating costs actually incurred with the advance payments made by the tenant. The basis is the service charges agreed in the tenancy agreement.
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