Avoid Tenant Errors: Claim Checks in Germany

Single parents or families, as a tenant in Germany you often face questions about rent reduction, housing allowance or protection against eviction. This text explains clearly which mistakes commonly occur when checking claims, which legal foundations are important and which deadlines you must observe. We show practical steps to collect documents, fill in forms correctly and when to involve the local court. The aim is that you as a tenant can assess your rights more confidently and avoid unnecessary risks.

Important first steps

Start with structured documentation: lease, handover protocol, photos of defects, communication with the landlord and receipts are central. Note dates and deadlines immediately, because missing deadlines can endanger claims.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Incomplete evidence collection: missing photos, no dates or lost messages.
• Formal errors in letters and forms: wrong recipient address or missing signature.
• Missing deadlines: not complaining or suing within required time limits.
• Unauthorized repairs without agreement: cost reimbursement can cause problems.
• No legal clarification before court: cases take longer if necessary steps are missing.

Legal bases and authorities

Your rights as a tenant are regulated in the Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding duties and defects in the lease ^[1]. For court procedures the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies ^[2]. Social claims such as housing allowance are covered by the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) ^[3]. For precedent cases, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) may be relevant ^[4].

If you check financial support, contact the responsible housing allowance office early and use the official housing allowance application of the municipality or state ^[5]. As a single parent, also check possible exceptions in calculation and deadlines.

Practical checklist before submitting a claim

• Collect lease, handover protocol and all invoices.
• Fill out the form correctly: check name, address, date and signature.
• Note deadlines: the deadline starts when you become aware of the defect.
• Document every communication with the landlord (email, letters, phone notes).

FAQ

What deadlines apply to rent reduction?

Rent reduction can generally be asserted from the time the defect was reported to the landlord; follow the provisions in the BGB and document date and extent of the defect.^[1]

When is the local court competent?

The local court usually handles most tenancy disputes, such as eviction actions or claims up to the statutory limit; in higher instances the regional court and possibly the BGH follow.^[4]

How do I apply for housing allowance?

You apply for housing allowance at the responsible housing allowance office of your municipality; use the authority's official application form and submit proof of income and rental costs.^[5]

How-To

1. Document (record): gather lease, photos, invoices and a timeline of events with dates.
2. Send written notice (file): notify the landlord of defects in writing and set a deadline for remedy.
3. Check proofs (evidence): keep receipts and emails organized.
4. Contact authority or court (court): if necessary, file an action at the competent local court.
5. Seek advice (contact): get support from the housing allowance office or free legal counseling if required.

Help & Support / Resources

• Amtsgericht / Bundesgerichtshof (court) – Courts responsible for tenancy law
• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
• Service Bund – Forms and housing allowance information

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet – WoFG
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof – Case law on tenancy
5. [5] Service Bund – Housing allowance application and municipal offices