How do I keep proof of my rent agreement and the flat's condition, for my deposit?
On the day you move in, photograph or film every room, the walls, floors, fittings and anything already damaged, and scan or save the signed rent agreement. Then, the same day, make a proof of those exact files: a fingerprint of each file, time stamped by independent witnesses, which shows they existed, unchanged, by that day. Months later, when the deposit is discussed, the photos still match their proof, so nobody can say they were taken after you moved out. Keep the original files, not copies sent over WhatsApp, because WhatsApp compresses photos and a compressed copy no longer matches. Do the same on the day you move out.
Why a date on a photo is not enough
A photo's date comes from the phone or computer that saved it, and it can be changed in a minute. In a dispute, the other side only has to say "those were taken later". A proof made by independent time services on the day answers that: the file existed by then, and it has not changed since.
It does not prove what the photo shows or who took it, and it does not replace a properly stamped or registered agreement. It fixes the date and the exact content, which is usually what is argued about.
What to keep
The signed agreement, as a PDF or a clear scan. Photos or a slow video of every room, including meter readings. Receipts for any repairs you pay for during the stay. And the messages where things were agreed, saved as files. Prove each set on the day you have it.
Moving in, in ten minutes
- 01
Walk through and photograph everything
Each room, each wall, the floor, fittings, appliances, meter readings, and any existing damage up close.
- 02
Save the signed agreement as a file
The PDF you were sent, or a clear scan of the signed copy.
- 03
Prove the files the same day
Fingerprint and time stamp the folder, so the date cannot be argued with.
- 04
Keep the originals, and do it again at move out
Copies sent through chat apps are compressed and no longer match.
Rashnova Proof does the third step free, on your own computer: drop in the whole folder of photos and the agreement, and get a proof witnessed by four independent services, with a certificate you can print or send. The photos never leave your computer, and anyone can check the proof later in any browser, even without Rashnova. It shows the files existed, exactly as they are, by that day; it does not show who took them.