Abnahmetermin

An Abnahmetermin is a crucial meeting in German contract law, particularly in construction and service agreements. It signifies the formal acceptance of a completed work or service by the client or contracting party. The primary purpose of the Abnahmetermin is to verify that the delivered item or service meets the agreed-upon specifications and quality standards outlined in the contract.

During the Abnahmetermin, the client inspects the work to identify any defects or deviations from the contract. If minor defects are found, they are typically documented, and the contractor is given a reasonable timeframe to rectify them. If significant defects are present that impair the functionality or usability of the work, the client may refuse acceptance altogether.

The formal acceptance at the Abnahmetermin has several legal consequences. It marks the beginning of the warranty period, during which the contractor is liable for defects that arise. Furthermore, the risk of accidental loss or damage to the work typically transfers from the contractor to the client upon acceptance. Payment obligations, if not already fulfilled, often become due after a successful Abnahmetermin, minus any agreed-upon retention for potential defects. It is a legally significant event that concludes the performance phase of a contract and initiates subsequent phases of liability and final settlement.