Template: deposit settlement
Settle and pay out the rent deposit after move-out transparently (§ 551 BGB).
The deposit settlement shows, after the end of the tenancy, which amounts are withheld from the deposit and which are paid out. It creates transparency about legitimate deductions and the interest-bearing repayment amount.
How the template is structured
Header data
- Landlord and tenant
- Property and unit
- Start and end of the tenancy
Deposit
- Deposit amount held
- Accrued interest
- Held separately from the landlord's assets
Deductions
- Outstanding rent or operating costs
- Reasonable retention for the expected operating-cost balance
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
Result
- Offsetting of the deductions
- Payout amount
- Payout deadline and bank details
Legal framework
- § 551 BGB — rent deposit at most three months' net cold rent; held separately from the landlord's assets and interest-bearing.
- For an expected operating-cost balance, a reasonable part may be temporarily retained.
- The landlord's claims for damage lapse six months after return (§ 548 BGB).
- Repayment must occur within a reasonable review period; case law regularly draws the line at a few months.
Frequently asked questions
How high may the deposit be?+
At most three months' net cold rent without the operating-cost advance (§ 551 (1) BGB).
How long may the landlord keep the deposit?+
Until a reasonable review period has passed. For an operating-cost statement still outstanding, a reasonable part may be retained longer.
Must the deposit bear interest?+
Yes. The landlord must invest the deposit separately from their assets at the usual rate; the interest belongs to the tenant (§ 551 (3) BGB).
May damage be deducted?+
Only damage that goes beyond normal wear and tear. Claims lapse six months after return (§ 548 BGB).
We'll email you the template after a quick request.
This template is a non-binding guide and does not constitute legal or tax advice.