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German Phrase

Lies dir den Mietvertrag genau durch, damit du weißt, wie's mit der Kaution ist.

/liːs diːɐ̯ deːn ˈmiːtfɛɐ̯ˌtʁaːk ɡəˈnaʊ̯ dʊʁç ˈdaːmɪt duː vaɪ̯st viːs mɪt deːɐ̯ kaʊ̯ˈt͡si̯oːn ɪst/
Meaning"Read the rental agreement through carefully so that you know how it is with the security deposit."
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Meaning

This sentence is a piece of practical advice regarding the importance of understanding legal terms in a housing contract. It specifically highlights the 'Kaution' (security deposit), which is a common point of contention in German rentals. The phrasing is informal and helpful, typical of a conversation between friends.

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When to use

Use this phrase when a friend or colleague tells you they have found a new apartment and are about to sign the paperwork. It is a common warning to ensure they don't overlook important financial details.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Lies dirden Mietvertraggenau durchdamit du weißtwie's mit der Kaution ist

1

Durchlesen

This is a separable verb ('durch' + 'lesen'). In the imperative, the prefix 'durch' moves to the end of its clause.

2

Damit-Sätze

'Damit' is a subordinating conjunction that expresses purpose or intent, sending the conjugated verb ('weißt') to the end of the clause.

3

Wie's

This is a common spoken contraction of 'wie es', making the sentence sound more natural and fluid in conversation.

🗨In Conversation

A

Ich habe endlich die Zusage für die Wohnung in Berlin bekommen!

I finally got the approval for the apartment in Berlin!

Super! Lies dir den Mietvertrag genau durch, damit du weißt, wie's mit der Kaution ist.

Great! Read the rental agreement through carefully so that you know how it is with the security deposit.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Lies dir den Mietvertrag genau durch, damit du wissen, wie's mit der Kaution ist.

    In a 'damit' clause, the verb must be conjugated and placed at the end; 'wissen' should be 'weißt'.

  • Lies dir den Mietvertrag genau durch, damit du weißt, wie's mit den Kaution ist.

    'Kaution' is feminine, and after the preposition 'mit' (dative), it must be 'der Kaution'.

↔Alternatives

  • Überprüf die Kautionsklausel im Vertrag.

    Check the deposit clause in the contract.

  • Schau dir den Mietvertrag wegen der Kaution gut an.

    Take a good look at the rental agreement because of the deposit.

de

Cultural Tip

In Germany, the 'Kaution' is legally capped at three months' 'Kaltmiete' (base rent). It is highly recommended to create an 'Übergabeprotokoll' (handover protocol) when moving in to document existing damages, ensuring you get your full deposit back later.