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The 20-Point Viewing Checklist for Rentals

By Anna Berg · Last updated 2026-08-22 · 6 min read

Featured image: The 20-Point Viewing Checklist for Rentals
Photo: Navmeda Editorial Team — checking window seals during a viewing.

In short

A compact checklist you can work through during a rental viewing, plus the questions that reveal the real running costs of a flat.

For whom: Tenants viewing apartments in a competitive market

  • Which documents a landlord may and may not ask for
  • How to estimate heating costs from the energy certificate
  • Which defects belong in the handover protocol

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Before the appointment

Prepare a single PDF with the documents that are actually permissible: proof of income for the last three months, a rent payment confirmation and an identity document with unnecessary data redacted.

  • A tenant self-disclosure may not ask about pregnancy, religion or party membership
  • A SCHUFA credit check extract for tenants is enough — no full report
  • Never transfer a deposit before signing the contract

In the flat

Work room by room and photograph every defect you find. Ask for the heating type and the last utilities statement; a low base rent with an old gas boiler often ends up more expensive.

  • Window seals, ventilation and signs of mould in corners
  • Water pressure and drainage in kitchen and bathroom
  • Number and position of sockets, internet connection type
  • Noise level with the windows open and closed

Common mistakes

Signing a handover protocol that lists no defects means you accept them. Take the time to add them, even if the landlord seems annoyed.

Frequently asked questions

How high may the deposit be?
A maximum of three months' net rent, payable in up to three instalments.
Can a viewing fee be charged?
No. Charging tenants for a viewing or a contract is not permissible.

Editorial notice

This article provides general information only. It is not legal, tax or financial advice and does not replace individual professional consultation. Prices, availability and legal requirements can change at any time; the offer conditions of the respective seller, landlord or provider always apply.

This article is editorially independent and contains no paid placements or affiliate links. Reviewed and approved on 2026-08-22 by Lena Hoffmann (Editor-in-Chief). Responsible for content under § 18 (2) MStV: see the imprint.

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