Accessible Online Tenant Advice in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you may face questions such as rent increases, defects or termination. This page explains how an online tenant advice service works in an accessible, focused way, which official forms and deadlines matter and when a local court is responsible. We show step by step how to collect evidence, draft letters to the landlord and which local courts or authorities can help. The language remains easy to understand so you can follow your rights under §§ 535–580a BGB ^[1] and the main procedures in civil litigation ^[2]. At the end you will find concrete support offices and official forms needed for objections, rent reductions or eviction protection. The examples are practical and show how to meet deadlines and assemble documents correctly. For complex cases we recommend contacting a local tenant association or the local court.

How the online tenant advice works

An online tenant advice typically starts with a description of the problem via form or email. Advisers review your information, point to relevant legal provisions and explain deadlines. For reported defects you receive guidance on evidence, for termination notices the next steps, and for imminent eviction information on eviction protection and court deadlines ^[2]. If a procedure becomes necessary, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and fundamental legal questions may involve Federal Court of Justice decisions ^{[3] [4]}.

Important official forms

• Application for legal-aid consultation (Beratungshilfe) – use this form if you need help reducing consultation costs; example: submit at the local court if your income is limited.^[3]
• Complaint form for civil proceedings (claim for payment or eviction) – used when filing a claim at the local court without lawyer representation; example: responding to or filing an eviction claim.^[3]
• Template for written defect notification and deadline to the landlord – used to document defects and set a reasonable repair deadline; example: set a 14-day repair deadline for mold issues.

Practical steps for defects and repairs

If something in your apartment is not functioning or the habitability is reduced, follow these steps to protect your rights:

• Collect evidence: photos, dates, witnesses and keep written communication.
• Send defect notification to the landlord: in writing, name a deadline and demand remediation.
• If repairs do not occur: consider rent reduction and calculate appropriately, possibly applying for legal-aid consultation.
• If in dispute: consider claims or applications at the local court; observe procedural deadlines under the ZPO.^[2]

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?

Yes, tenants can reduce rent if useability is substantially impaired. Document outage times and report the defect in writing with a deadline.

Which court handles eviction claims?

Eviction claims are generally heard at the local court (Amtsgericht); appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht). Procedural rules are found in the Code of Civil Procedure.

How do I get legal-aid consultation?

You can apply for legal-aid consultation at the local court if your means are limited; there is a specific form and conditions reviewed by the court.^[3]

How-To

1. Send form or email to the advice service: briefly state the facts, deadlines and desired assistance.
2. Compile documents: tenancy agreement, photos, correspondence and receipts to attach or upload.
3. Follow recommendations: use suggested wording for letters to the landlord and respect deadlines.
4. If needed: prepare for court action and review the procedure at the local court.

Key takeaways

• Early documentation improves outcomes in disputes.
• Observe deadlines: respond within stated timeframes.
• Seek help from official bodies or the local court when uncertain.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Justiz forms and services – justiz.de
• Federal Court of Justice – information and case law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Justiz-Formulare und Service – justiz.de
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof – Information and Case Law