Frequently asked questions

The deposit will only be repaid once all of the costs incurred during the tenancy have been paid in full.

The repayment will only be delayed if there are still questions about certain costs or if they have not yet been paid. These costs usually apply to repairs for damage identified when the property is handed back or to an open ancillary cost bill.

The deposit is normally a maximum of three months’ rent. A deposit gives the landlord security in case a tenant doesn't pay their rent, ancillary costs or cause damage to the rental property.

Any costs for repairing damage or replacing parts are recorded in the property handover checklist and may be deducted from the deposit. Other reasons could be outstanding rent payments or additional ancillary costs that have not yet been paid.

The deposit must be paid in full at least one week before the lease commences.

Livit recommends Firstcaution’s products to its tenants: this company offers both rental deposit insurance and the option of storing the deposit in a bank account. Livit will also accept the submission of a surety certificate. Please note that keys cannot be collected if the deposit has not been made. The tenant is responsible for transferring the deposit on time.

An adjustment can only be made based on a change in the reference interest rate if the interest rate of the tenancy agreement or the latest rent adjustment is lower than the currently applicable rate. An adjustment can be made for inflation or cost increases irrespective of the reference interest rate.

Inflation is determined using the National Consumer Price Index. The starting point is the index indicated in the tenancy agreement or as known at the time of the last rent adjustment. This is then compared to the new index.

In the event of an increase, we will inform you by post about the rent adjustment. You will receive the new payment details in good time before the increase becomes valid. 

Cost increases include any increases to costs for the operation, maintenance and management of the rental property. In practice, flat rates are used.

No, it can vary due to the basis for calculation.

The formula for the relative method of rent adjustment is based on a model developed by the Federal Office for Housing. If the reference interest rate drops by a quarter of one percent, this will result in a rent reduction of 2.91%. In addition to the reference interest rate, 40% of the inflation rate (National Consumer Price Index) and cost increases may also be passed on to the rent. This can vary depending on the contract and the individual circumstances.