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10 things you need to know about German apartments

July 21, 2017

In Germany, you may need to bring your own kitchen - and paintbrush - when renting an apartment. In a country with one of the highest rental rates in Europe, a rich and sometimes quirky rental culture has developed.

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Different types of apartments in Berlin
Image: picture-alliance/Arco Images

In Germany, renting is the norm rather than the exception. About 48 percent of residents live in rental accommodation, according to the most recent statistics from Statista (2015) - though in cities like Berlin it's as high as 85 percent. On average in the European Union, seven in 10 people own their dwelling. 

With so many tenants in Germany, a unique renting culture has developed. Renters may have a lot of legal rights in Germany, but they are also expected to make contributions to their temporary home, like purchases their own kitchen appliances - and even kitchen counter - and painting the place. 

For more important things to know before renting an apartment in Germany, click through the gallery above. What will you find in those apartments? Read the gallery below for more. 

Stuart Braun | DW Reporter
Stuart Braun Berlin-based journalist with a focus on climate and culture.