Report Changes for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany you must report changes such as address, bank details or household composition in a timely and correct manner. This text explains in plain language which documents landlords or authorities typically require, which deadlines apply and how to document receipts securely. We list official forms, provide practical sample wordings and explain when registered mail or personal delivery is sensible. The aim is to protect your rights and avoid unnecessary conflicts with your landlord. The guidance is practical and helps you avoid formal errors, meet deadlines and keep evidence organized.
Which changes should you report?
As a tenant you should report changes that affect the tenancy or communication with the landlord and authorities. These include:
- Address (move, mail forwarding, registration or re-registration at the residents' registration office)
- New bank details for rent payments
- Change in household composition (housemates, subtenant)
- Pets, if regulated in the lease
- Change in benefit receipt (e.g. housing benefit or rent subsidies)
- Renovation or access arrangements for tradespeople
Forms and evidence
Which documents are required depends on the reason. Important documents in practice include:
- ID card or registration certificate for address changes
- Written confirmation of the new bank details or bank statement
- Sublease agreement or landlord consent for subletting
- Housing benefit application or decisions when benefit receipt changes
Concrete sample texts (e.g. for a written notification to the landlord) can help. If legal obligations are affected, they are based on tenancy law in the German Civil Code (BGB)[1].
How to deliver changes securely
Practical steps so the notification is effective and serves as evidence in case of dispute:
- Collect all evidence (copy of the letter, delivery protocol, receipt confirmation).
- Formulate clearly: what changed, from which date, and which documents are attached.
- Choose delivery: personal handover with receipt confirmation or registered mail with return receipt.
- Note deadlines and respond quickly to landlord or authority questions.
FAQ
- How do I notify my landlord of an address change?
- Write briefly and factually the date, new address and from which date the change applies; hand the letter over personally with receipt confirmation or send by registered mail.
- How long must I keep documents?
- Keep rent payments, statements and relevant letters for at least two years; keep them longer in case of disputes.
- Can the landlord refuse the notification?
- The landlord may not refuse the notification without reason; in case of problems local courts or higher instances decide on the legal situation[2].
How-To
- Collect: Gather all relevant evidence and identity documents.
- Write: Formulate briefly, precisely and include the date.
- Deliver: Hand over personally with a receipt confirmation or send by registered mail.
- Store: Archive copies digitally and on paper.
Key takeaways
- Written notifications are the best evidence in disputes.
- Observe deadlines and formal requirements to secure your rights.
Help and Support
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Laws in Germany
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law
- Federal Ministry of the Interior – Registration information
