Alternative Housing with Medical Notes: Tenant Guide Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of whether and how they can document an alternative housing need with medical notes, for example after health problems or when a dwelling becomes uninhabitable. This guide explains in practical terms which rights renters have, which proofs are accepted and how to fill out forms correctly. I describe deadlines, authorities and the procedure in disputes with the landlord – from documentation to possible lawsuits at the local court. The aim is for you as a tenant to find compact, understandable steps: how to collect medical notes, which official forms are necessary and when legal help makes sense. Read on for concrete samples, deadline examples and contacts in Germany.

When is an alternative housing needed?

An alternative housing situation often becomes relevant when the current apartment is no longer habitable due to health hazards, serious defects or an official order. Examples include severe mold problems with health consequences, lack of heating in winter or cleanup bans after pollutant findings. What matters is how well you as a tenant medically and factually document your situation.

Which medical notes and evidence are accepted

• Medical form (form): A written medical note from the family or specialist doctor that specifically describes the health impairment.
• Documentation / evidence: Photos, temperature and humidity logs and written defect reports to the landlord.
• Expert report (form): In disputed cases, a report from an expert or hygiene institute may be necessary.
• Official certificates (call): Written notices or measures from the health authority or building control, if available.

Practical steps: prove, report, secure

Keep a chronological file with medical notes, defect reports, photos and deadlines. Send defect reports by registered mail or by email with read receipt and request a written response. If the landlord does not respond, document each action date – this helps later at the local court.

• Observe deadlines (time): Respond within days to weeks depending on the danger; report acute health risks immediately.
• Create a defect report (form): Describe defect, date, effects and request remediation in writing.
• Collect evidence (evidence): Gather photos, medical notes, logs and witness statements.
• Contact authorities (call): Inform health authority or building control if there is a serious danger.

Forms, samples and authorities

There are few official forms specifically for rent reductions; tenants usually use standardized defect reports, medical notes and, if necessary, court complaint forms. Use official laws to interpret your rights (e.g. BGB). If you have to sue, the local court uses standardized complaint forms.

• Defect report (form): Own letter documenting defect, deadline for remediation and consequences.
• Medical note (form): Doctor's name, diagnosis/reasoning, date and signature.
• Local court complaint form (court): Standard civil complaint for eviction or monetary claims.

How-To

1. Obtain a medical note (form): Ask the doctor for a specific statement linking health issues to the apartment.
2. Secure evidence (evidence): Collect photos, measurements, witnesses and previous reports.
3. Send a defect report to the landlord (form): In writing, set a deadline and document receipt.
4. Inform authorities (call): Contact the health authority or building control in case of serious hazards.
5. Check the local court (court): If no agreement, consider filing a complaint or interim injunction.
6. Check legal protection (safety): Review advisory aid, legal aid or legal insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is a medical note sufficient for alternative housing?

A medical note is sufficient if it substantially explains how the apartment impairs health and why a temporary move is warranted.

Can I claim rent reduction if I use alternative housing?

Rent reduction is possible for significant impairment of usability; document damages and inform the landlord in writing.

Which courts decide disputes?

Local courts handle first-instance cases; appeals go to the regional court and possibly to the Federal Court of Justice.

Help and Support

• BGB texts and guidance: Official law texts on tenant and landlord duties.
• Court information: Guidance on local courts and civil procedure.
• Federal Ministry of Justice: Forms, leaflets and civil procedure information.

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (Tenancy law)
2. [2] ZPO – Code of Civil Procedure (process rules, complaint forms)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions and guidance on tenancy law