German Phrase
Was kosten denn so die Nebenkosten?
Meaning
Literally: 'What do the additional costs cost, then?' In everyday German it means 'How much do the extra charges (like heating, water, etc.) usually cost?' The speaker is asking for an approximate figure, often before signing a rental contract.
When to use
Use this phrase when you are looking at a rental listing, a hotel bill, or any service that separates a base price from extra fees. It’s common in informal conversations with landlords, real‑estate agents, or friends who have lived in the same building.
✦Grammar Breakdown
WaskostendennsodieNebenkosten?
Was (question word)
Used to ask 'what' and starts a yes‑no or wh‑question.
kosten (verb)
Means 'to cost'; in the present tense it is conjugated as 'kosten' for plural subjects.
denn (modal particle)
Adds a friendly, slightly inquisitive tone, similar to 'by the way' or 'actually' in English.
so (adverb)
Softens the question, implying 'roughly' or 'approximately'.
die Nebenkosten (noun phrase)
Plural noun meaning 'additional costs' (e.g., utilities, heating, water) that are added to the base rent.
🗨In Conversation
Was kosten denn so die Nebenkosten?
How much do the extra charges usually cost?
Bei uns liegen sie bei etwa 150 Euro im Monat, inklusive Heizung und Wasser.
For us they’re about 150 euros a month, including heating and water.
✕Common Mistakes
Was kostet denn so die Nebenkosten?
‘Kosten’ must agree with the plural noun ‘Nebenkosten’; use the plural form ‘kosten’.
Was kosten denn die Nebenkosten so?
Placing ‘so’ after the noun sounds unnatural; it should stay before the noun phrase.
Was kosten denn so die Nebenkost?
‘Nebenkost’ is not used in standard German; the correct plural is ‘Nebenkosten’.
↔Alternatives
Wie hoch sind die Nebenkosten?
What is the amount of the additional costs?
Was muss ich für die Nebenkosten einplanen?
What should I budget for the additional costs?
Können Sie mir die Nebenkosten grob schätzen?
Can you give me a rough estimate of the additional costs?
Cultural Tip
In Germany, 'Nebenkosten' (often abbreviated as 'NK') are a standard part of any rental agreement. They usually cover heating, water, garbage collection, building insurance, and sometimes internet or cleaning services. The amount can vary widely by region and building type, so asking for a rough figure before signing is considered prudent. Be aware that landlords must provide an annual 'Nebenkostenabrechnung' (utility statement) that details the actual consumption.