First apartment checklist: what you really need
Your first place in Germany – and suddenly there's no can opener. This checklist gathers everything for setting up: kitchen, bathroom, sleeping, cleaning, tools and the bureaucracy after moving in. Just tick off what you already have – your progress is saved in this browser, and you can print it or save as PDF.
The starter checklist to tick off
Six areas, from the kitchen to the paperwork after you move in.
Kitchen
Sleeping & living
Bathroom
Cleaning & household
Tools & often forgotten
Bureaucracy after moving in
First, get the keys
Before you furnish anything, you need the flat. WohnungsBewerber reads any listing, writes your personal German application letter and pre-fills the contact form – so you apply first, even without fluent German. You review and send it yourself. Free, data stays local.
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The bureaucracy, explained:
Frequently asked questions
What do I need for my first apartment in Germany?
Beyond furniture: kitchen basics (pots, cutlery, kettle), sleeping and living (bed, bedding, table, lamps), bathroom items, cleaning supplies and a few tools. Just as important is the bureaucracy after moving in – registering your address, sorting electricity, internet and insurance.
What bureaucracy do I handle after moving in?
Register your address (Anmeldung) within two weeks, get the landlord confirmation you need for it, sign up electricity and gas, order internet early, register for the broadcasting fee, consider household insurance, and set up a standing order for the rent.
Are smoke detectors mandatory in Germany?
Yes – required in bedrooms, children's rooms and hallways across Germany. Often the landlord installs and maintains them, but check.
When should I order internet?
As early as possible. Installation appointments can take weeks, so order it as soon as you know your move-in date to avoid being offline for a long time.