Having just moved, you may not yet have the evidence landlords usually expect. That is a reason to explain your situation early rather than promise a document you do not have.

Understand what the request is for

Find out what kind of confirmation the landlord wants and which alternatives they would consider. Share real information about your income and employment only to the extent needed. Do not assume that one document will satisfy every landlord.

Write a short explanation

State when you moved, the nature of your current income and the documents you have. If a guarantee is suggested, first discuss the terms and consequences with a qualified professional. Do not take on financial commitments just to get a faster answer.

Which explanations help keep the conversation going

Briefly explain that you moved recently and do not yet have the requested German confirmation. List only the documents you actually have and ask which of them the recipient would consider. One landlord's agreement does not become a rule for everyone. Do not promise a positive result from a future credit report or draw conclusions about your rating without the document itself. The purpose of the message is to find an acceptable next step, not to prove that a landlord is generally obliged to accept any alternative.

Why trying to make up for a missing document is risky

Do not keep handing over more personal information without understanding what check it enables. Be especially careful with offers to quickly buy an unclear document or to take on extra financial obligations. If a guarantee or another form of security is discussed, go through its content and consequences with a qualified professional. Record the agreed terms separately for each flat. A missing document should lead to a precise question, not to invented information or promises that cannot be kept.

What to check

  • Do not claim that having no history equals a positive check.
  • Ask about alternatives before sending your file.
  • Check who will receive your personal documents.
  • Record the answer separately for each flat.

Example situation

Two landlords may view the same set of evidence differently. A suitable alternative needs to be agreed with each one rather than declared universally acceptable.

Next step

The goal is a clear and honest picture of your ability to pay, while respecting the landlord's right to assess the application.

Official information on this topic

Checklists and examples are organisational recommendations. Requirements depend on the procedure, the city and your situation; check them with the relevant office before you act. Please discuss legal and tax questions with an authorised professional.

This article was prepared with the help of AI. The example illustrates the approach and does not describe a client case.