Adjust Index Rent Correctly – Tenants Germany

Lease Agreements & Types 2 min read · published September 07, 2025
Many tenancy agreements in Germany include an index rent: the rent automatically adjusts to the consumer price index. For tenants it is important to know how such an adjustment is calculated, which deadlines apply and what rights exist if the calculation is incorrect. This article clearly explains how you as a tenant can check the index clause, which documents you should collect and how to respond formally when an increase is announced. Read the step‑by‑step instructions below to meet deadlines and prove possible errors. If unsure, local courts or official consumer information can provide guidance.

Index Rent and Your Rights

Index rent means that the rent is linked to the consumer price index. In Germany, general provisions of tenancy law regulate your rights and duties; the relevant provisions are contained in the Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, BGB) in §§ 535–580a.[1] For an index-based adjustment, the landlord must disclose the calculation and state the date of the change.

Keep all payment receipts and statements organized.

How is the adjustment calculated?

The adjustment is based on the increase or decrease of the consumer price index. The landlord must demonstrate in a comprehensible way how they moved from a base index to the current index and how the new rent results from that.

Respond within deadlines to calculations to avoid losing rights.

When should you object?

Object in writing if the calculation is not comprehensible, there are formal errors, or the index clause is missing from the contract. Specify exactly which numbers or calculation steps are missing and demand a corrected statement.

Documentation increases your chances in later court proceedings.

FAQ

What is index rent?
Index rent is a contractual agreement where the rent changes according to the consumer price index.
What deadlines apply for objections?
There are no specific statutory objection deadlines for index adjustments; however, respond within weeks, ideally within 14–30 days, and document your steps.
Where can I turn for help?
In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is primarily competent and, if necessary, the regional court (Landgericht); for legal certainty you can use official authorities and consumer information.[2]

How-To

  1. Check the index clause in your lease and note the base period.
  2. Request a detailed calculation and the underlying index document from the landlord in writing.
  3. Collect evidence: rent payments, utility statements and all communications about the adjustment.
  4. Observe deadlines: respond promptly and set the landlord a deadline to correct the calculation, e.g. 14 days.
  5. If necessary, prepare a claim or clarification before the local court; consult official forms and templates if in doubt.[3]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, BGB) §§535–580a
  2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (Zivilprozessordnung, ZPO)
  3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV) – Forms

Categories

Tenant Rights & Protections Lease Agreements & Types Security Deposits & Accounts Rent & Rent Control Utilities & Service Charge Billing Repairs & Maintenance Duties Modernization & Cost Allocation Termination by Tenant Termination by Landlord & Protection Move-In & Move-Out Inspections House Rules & Communal Rights Privacy & Landlord Entry Rights Discrimination & Equal Treatment Accessibility & Disability Rights Social Housing & Housing Entitlement Certificate Housing Allowance & Rent Subsidies Dispute Resolution & Rent Reduction Safety & Emergency Protections Liability & Household Insurance Special Termination Protections Special Housing Types Tenant Associations & Advice Services
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

Related Articles