Paying rent in cash with reciept and contract?

Member since 17 August 2021

anleeMember17 August 2021 08:01:28

Hi!

I am moving to berlin and looking for my first flat from September. I'm hoping to rent a short term apartment, it's a sublease. The guy asked if I was ok with paying rent in cash, and he would give me a reciept each time. There would be a contract and Anmeldung. Do you guys think this is a good idea, as in - can I get into any trouble this way?

Thankss!

beppi Germany/Singapore Expert

Member since 08 August 2010

Germany & Singapore Expert

beppiGermany/Singapore Expert18 August 2021 20:33:13

15454

It is certainly unisual, but not illegal to pay rent (or ask for rent payment) in cash.
Almost certainly there is some dubious reason to it (as is the case with basically all cash transactions above a few hundred Euros in Germany), so be careful!

nz7521137 ViP

Member since 03 July 2021

nz7521137ViP22 August 2021 15:25:34

562

Don't worry too much about the cash request and it is usually not dubious at all. It is quite usual to buy/sell used cars from/to private owners with cash. That is much easier than using other means.

TominStuttgart Germany Expert

Member since 19 March 2012

TominStuttgartGermany Expert22 August 2021 19:55:39

2773

Legally possible but be aware that the landlord, in this case the main renter, needs to sign the forms but does NOT register for you.

beppi Germany/Singapore Expert

Member since 08 August 2010

Germany & Singapore Expert

beppiGermany/Singapore Expert22 August 2021 20:16:48

15454

nz7521137: You are unfortunately wrong! Used cars are often paid in cash precisely to avoid legal requirements for warranty and taxation - not at all in the interest of the buyer, but usually the seller is willing to offer a lower price that way (for exactly that reason!).