Rental deposit: the interest is due to you
Many people do not know: the landlord may not simply leave the rental deposit sitting in their account. They must invest it separately from their own assets and with interest, and the interest belongs to you. When you move out, you should not forget it.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Claim the interest →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Ask about the investment
You can demand that the landlord prove the separate, interest-bearing investment of the deposit.
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2. Calculate the interest
The savings interest accrued over the years belongs to your deposit.
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3. Claim it when you move out
Demand repayment of the deposit including the interest in writing.
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4. In case of a breach
If the landlord unlawfully failed to invest it with interest, you can still demand the interest that would have accrued with a correct investment.
Frequently asked questions
Must my rental deposit earn interest?
Yes. The landlord must invest a cash deposit separately from their own assets at a bank at the usual savings interest (§ 551 para. 3 BGB). The interest that accrues is due to you and increases the security. When you move out you get the deposit back including interest, minus justified claims.
What if the landlord did not invest the deposit with interest?
Then they breach their statutory duty. You can still demand the interest that would have accrued with a proper, interest-bearing investment. When you move out, expressly reclaim the deposit including the interest and, if necessary, have the investment proven.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.