Germany · Answer
How much deposit can a German landlord ask for?
Before you hand over a large sum, know the ceiling: German law caps the rental deposit and lets you spread it. Here is the rule, from §551 BGB.
The deposit (Kaution) may be at most three months' rent excluding operating costs (cold rent), and you are entitled by law to pay it in three equal monthly instalments — the first at the start of the tenancy. Source ↗
Rules v2026-07-14.1 · verified 2026-07-14
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Rules last verified: 2026-07-14.