Accommodation in Frankfurt
Frankfurt is undoubtedly one of the most attractive cities in Germany, and it's no surprise that many people choose to move here! To assist you in your search for accommodation, we have compiled some helpful information:
Most rentals in Germany are unfurnished, but it is common for landlords to offer to provide furniture for a certain fee.
When tenants leave the city for a specific period, such as 6 or 12 months, and plan to return to Frankfurt afterward, they often seek subtenants for that period. In such cases, the flat is usually rented out furnished. One significant advantage of these offers is that you don't need to buy new furniture. However, it is crucial to thoroughly document any existing damage to the flat and its furnishings before moving in, as the landlord retains the right to hold you responsible for any damage caused during your rental period. If you cannot prove that the damage wasn't caused by you, the landlord may deduct money from your deposit.
A "WG" is a shared flat where each person typically has their own room, while the kitchen, bathroom, and living room are shared with other flatmates.
Shared flats can be rented for either a long-term or a limited period. They are very popular in Germany, especially among young people, due to the cost-effectiveness compared to renting an entire apartment on your own. As demand is high, WG tenants often organize a sort of "WG casting." Be prepared to answer questions about your flat-sharing experience and daily routine.
Before signing a tenancy agreement, make sure to inquire whether you can officially register your residence in Frankfurt using this agreement and obtain a "Wohnungsgeberbestätigung" from the landlord.
Many people prefer to have their own apartment, especially those who already have their own family. Since this type of rental is in high demand, it can be challenging to find a suitable flat, especially in the city center.
To avoid unpleasant surprises regarding the rental invoice, it is essential to remember that in Germany, we differentiate between "warm rent" and "cold rent." The cold rent is calculated based on the flat's size, location, and furnishings; it usually does not include water costs, heating, and electricity. Warm rent, on the other hand, represents the total amount you pay per month for your rent, including additional costs.
It's also important to know that the ancillary costs must be paid in advance. In the following year, you will receive a bill documenting your consumption. If your actual consumption is lower than estimated, you will receive a refund from the landlord. However, if your consumption is higher, you will have to pay extra. On average, ancillary costs are usually around 2-3 euros per square meter of your flat.
Further information
Here is an overview of the documents you typically need to present when taking over a flat:
A self-disclosure form is a questionnaire that requests more detailed information about your private, family, and economic situation. However, it is important to note that questions about religious affiliation, sexual orientation, party affiliation, or family planning are not allowed and should not be included in the form.
When completing the self-disclosure form, it is crucial to provide truthful and accurate information. Falsifying any information could lead to serious consequences, including the landlord terminating the tenancy if they discover any false or misleading details. Therefore, it is essential to fill in all fields honestly and accurately.
A certificate of freedom from rental debt is a document that verifies your consistent and reliable rent payment history. Your previous landlord issues this certificate.
If you have never rented a flat independently, you can submit a rent guarantee certificate from your parents. This document confirms that your parents will cover your rent in case you are unable to do so yourself.
The abbreviation SCHUFA stands for "Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Sicherung". In Germany it provides information about your creditworthiness. SCHUFA collects and analyzes your past payment history and provides an assessment of how your payment behavior may appear in the future. If you have consistently paid your bills on time, then you have nothing to worry about - your SCHUFA will be positive. Having a positive SCHUFA report increases your chances of securing an apartment.
Landlords usually inquire about your salary to ensure that you can afford the flat. To verify your income, you can provide a copy of your last three payslips. If you have recently started a new job, you can submit a copy of your employment contract to the landlord.
If you are self-employed, you can use a copy of your last tax statement as documentation of your income.
If you are a student with a part-time job or currently unemployed, you should submit a parental guarantee form confirming that the rent will be paid on time. Alternatively, your parents can rent the flat and include their names in the rental contract. However, they must be able to prove their income and provide other relevant documents in that case.
The landlord must provide you with a landlord's confirmation within two weeks after you move in, so that you can register your new address at your local customer service center. Along with the landlord's (or flat owner's) name and address, the confirmation must also include the date you moved in, the address of the flat, and, of course, your name. Please be aware that a tenancy agreement, instead of a landlord's confirmation, is not sufficient for registration.
If you are moving to Frankfurt from another city in Germany and plan to live there for longer than six months, or if you are moving to Frankfurt from abroad and intend to stay in the city for longer than three months, you must register your address. This should be done within fourteen days after moving in. In addition to the registration form, you will also need a landlord's confirmation and your identity card or passport. Please schedule an appointment for the registration and bring all the necessary documents with you. You can find the link to make an appointment and other information here.
