When will I get my security deposit back?

In Germany, landlords are not obliged to refund the rental deposit immediately after the tenant moves out. According to the law, they have a processing period to check the property, including for any damages that were not apparent when the tenant handed it over.

The processing period is typically between 3 and 6 months. This can be extended in exceptional cases where contracts specify the building's operating costs, and the yearly operating cost statement isn't available yet. Landlords have to inform tenants after 6 months, and deposits must be returned within 12 months. 

In most cases, landlords prefer to return the deposit faster, but it's best practice to agree with them on a timeline at the beginning of the tenancy.

For further advice on deposits, and what to do in case you have a disagreement or difficulties communicating with the landlord, read our guide to Deposits in Germany.

Wunderflats is not a contractual party to the rental agreements. Therefore, the deposit can neither be transferred to Wunderflats nor refunded by Wunderflats to the tenants.