Lease termination agreement.
In Germany, tenants and landlords can end a residential lease by mutual agreement, called a Mietaufhebungsvertrag. There is no notice period and no reason is required, but both sides must agree. This guide explains the essentials.
View template (German) Key pointsKey facts.
What is a Mietaufhebungsvertrag?
A Mietaufhebungsvertrag is an agreement between tenant and landlord to end a rental contract on a date both choose. Unlike a notice of termination, it requires the consent of everyone named in the lease. Nobody can be forced to sign.
German law does not require a specific form, but a written agreement signed by all parties is strongly recommended.
What the agreement should cover.
- Names of everyone on the lease, on both sides
- Exact address of the flat, including cellar and parking space
- A precise end date
- Condition of the flat on return, keys and a handover report
- Return of the deposit and the final utility bill
- Any payment or other support, with clear due dates
- Signatures of all parties
Practical tips.
Take your time
You do not have to sign immediately. Read the agreement carefully and ask questions before signing.
Get advice
Tenants can get advice from a local tenants‘ association (Mieterverein). Both sides can consult a lawyer.
Handover report
Record the condition of the flat, meter readings and keys in a handover report signed by both sides.
Our template is in German.
Our free template is available in German only, as the agreement is governed by German law. It includes the agreement with 14 sections, a handover report and practical notes. This guide does not replace legal advice.
Metin Karadeniz is the founder of Sympathiq. He works on behalf of property owners and supports lease terminations in practice. On this site he shares his knowledge about the Mietaufhebungsvertrag for tenants and landlords. The content does not replace legal advice. Tenants can always contact a tenants‘ association or a lawyer.
About Metin Karadeniz