Payslips and a positive SCHUFA record and the apartment was yours. That's how simple it used to be. About 25 years ago, that is. But times are changing, and to land an apartment in a big city today you often have to include a lot more with your application. That includes a small but by no means unimportant document: the proof of rent payment (Mietschuldenfreiheitsbescheinigung).
Wondering what on earth that is? And is it mandatory? Let's clear up these and other questions, or jump straight to the PDF template to download it and have it filled in.
What is a proof of rent payment?
It is, so to speak, a written confirmation from your previous or current landlord. It confirms that you have made all rent payments in accordance with your contract. It also certifies that you have no rent arrears. In other words, it signals to your (potential) new landlord that you are a reliable tenant.
What's in it for landlords?
Landlords want tenants to pay their rent on time and in full - no more, no less. The certificate simply serves as proof of payment reliability. It can significantly boost your chances - especially when you are hunting for an apartment in Hamburg or other big cities.
It can also be an alternative or a supplement to a SCHUFA report, in case the latter isn't quite ideal.
Is a proof of rent payment mandatory?
No, it is not legally required. However, a landlord can request one or favour applicants who provide one. Anyone who can't (or won't) get one should have alternative documents ready. These could be, for example, bank statements showing rent payments or a confirmation from your employer.
What must the proof of rent payment contain?
The document should include the following information:
- Landlord details (name, address, phone number)
- Tenant details (name, address of the previous apartment)
- Statement regarding rent payments:
- Confirmation that the rent was always paid in full and on time OR
- Details of any outstanding rent arrears, stating the amount
- Place, date and signature of the landlord
What can I do if I can't provide a certificate?
Have you never rented before, or is your former / current landlord refusing to issue you a proof of rent payment? There are alternatives to prove your payment reliability - for example:
- Payslips and bank statements
- SCHUFA report
- Confirmation from your employer:
- A guarantor
Please note that you are allowed to redact any other activity on your bank statements - it's absolutely none of the landlord's business. Only the rent payments of the last 6-12 months need to be visible.
Free PDF template to download
We've created a free PDF template for you. Just download it and have your former landlord fill it in. You don't even need to print it out specially. Most landlords have no problem signing it and sending it back to you by email.