Finding a Handwerker — Tips for Repairs and Renovations

Why hire a Handwerker?

In Germany, many types of work are subject to Meisterpflicht — certain trades can only be performed by qualified Meisterbetrieb. This includes, for example, electrical installations, gas and water work, and chimney sweep services.

As a tenant, you should always inform your landlord of major repairs and obtain written consent. Many repairs are the landlord's responsibility (§ 535 BGB).

Where to find a Handwerker?

Online Portals

• MyHammer (myhammer.de) — Germany's largest Handwerker portal. You describe the job, Handwerker submit offers.
• Check24 Handwerker — price comparison and reviews
• Gelbe Seiten (gelbeseiten.de) — classic trade directory, also online
• Google Maps — read reviews, search "Handwerker nearby"

Recommendations

• Ask neighbors and friends — personal recommendations are often most reliable
• Building management — usually has a list of proven companies
• Handwerkskammer (hwk.de) — official Handwerker search by trade and postal code

What types of Handwerker are there?

The Kostenvoranschlag (Cost Estimate)

Before placing an order, you should always request a Kostenvoranschlag (KVA) — preferably from 2–3 companies.

What must the KVA contain?

• Detailed description of work
• Material costs (itemized)
• Labor hours and hourly rate
• Travel expenses
• VAT (19%)
• Validity period of the offer

Is the KVA free?

• Generally yes, if you ask
• Some companies charge a fee (must be agreed beforehand)
• If the order is placed, the KVA fee is often credited

How binding is the KVA?

• The final price may not exceed the KVA by more than 15–20%
• For larger deviations, the Handwerker must inform you beforehand
• Alternatively: agree on a fixed-price offer — then the price is binding

Typical Prices (as of 2026)

Locksmith warning: Disreputable providers charge €500 and more. Compare prices beforehand, ask about the hourly rate, and insist on an invoice.

Your Rights as a Client

Warranty

• Handwerker are liable for defects for 2 years (§ 634a BGB)
• For construction work even 5 years
• Complain about defects in writing and set a deadline for correction

Check the invoice

• Always demand a detailed invoice
• Compare with the Kostenvoranschlag
• Handwerker costs tax deductible — 20% of labor costs (max. €1,200/year) are tax-deductible (§ 35a EStG). Only applies to bank transfers, not cash payments!

If problems arise

• Contact the Handwerkskammer — mediation service for disputes
• Verbraucherzentrale — free or low-cost advice
• If necessary: attorney specializing in contract law

Black Market Work — Avoid It!

Black market work (work without invoice) is illegal in Germany — for both parties:

• No warranty for defects
• No insurance coverage for accidents
• Fines up to €50,000 for the client

Tips for Foreigners

• Hire companies registered in the Handwerksrolle (sign of trustworthiness)
• Ask to see their master craftsman certificate number
• Agree on everything in writing — even via email
• If there's a language barrier: bring someone to translate or use translation apps

As of March 2026. All information without guarantee.