BGH Rulings 2025 for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany it is important to know the current BGH rulings of 2025 because they directly affect rental relationships, rent increases, terminations and repair obligations. This article explains in plain language which decisions now apply, what rights and duties tenants have and how to act in practical cases such as defects, heating cost disputes or eviction. I show which official forms are needed, how to meet deadlines and where tenancy disputes start at the local court. The goal is to give you clear steps so you can enforce your rights or react in time — without legal ballast, but with pointers to relevant laws such as the BGB and responsible authorities in Germany.
Important BGH Rulings 2025 for Tenants
The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) issued several 2025 decisions that affect practice in cases of rental defects, terminations and operating costs. Some rulings clarify when a rent reduction is appropriate and how deadlines are calculated. Other decisions concern the requirements for an effective notice of termination or the limit of permissible rent increases. If necessary, these decisions can serve as precedents before local courts or regional courts.[2]
- Rent reduction for significant defects: If a defect exists, document date, photos and correspondence; the amount depends on the individual assessment.
- Protection against termination and deadlines: The BGH clarifies which formal requirements a termination must meet to be legally effective.
- Rent increase and comparable rent: Check whether the calculation for the local comparative rent is correct and comprehensible.
- Eviction and enforcement: In eviction judgments, the local court is often the next instance before enforcement measures follow.
In most cases the BGH protects the contractual use of the apartment.
What Tenants Should Do Now
Practically, tenants should first check deadlines, fully document defects and notify the landlord in writing. Consult relevant statutes such as the BGB (BGB §§535–580a) and ensure compliance with deadlines and formal requirements, especially for terminations or formal objections.[1]
- Observe deadlines: Respond within set deadlines, for example to warnings or payment demands.
- Collect documentation: Photos, emails, handwritten notes and witness statements increase evidential strength.
- Report defects: Describe defects concretely, demand remedy and set a reasonable deadline.
Keep photos and written defect reports.
Important Forms
- Termination letter (template): A unilateral termination letter with date, address and signature. Example: send the landlord a registered letter when you want to terminate properly; pay attention to notice periods.
- Complaint / statement of claim for the local court: If disputes remain, the claimant (tenant or landlord) files a lawsuit with the competent local court; exact formal requirements and application forms can be found on official justice pages.
- Written defect notification: Can be informal, but always dated and signed; keep a copy and proof of dispatch.
For official forms and guidance use the websites of official authorities or ask the competent local court how to submit documents.
FAQ
- Can I reduce rent because of mold?
- Yes, in case of significant mold infestation a rent reduction can be appropriate. It is important to document the defect, inform the landlord and set a deadline for remedy.
- What to do in case of an immediate termination?
- Check the reasons for termination, document all relevant events and seek legal advice or support quickly; respond within short deadlines.
- Where do I file a lawsuit?
- Tenancy law cases usually start at the competent local court of your place of residence; the local court decides in the first instance.
How-To
- Check deadlines: Read the deadline specifications in the landlord's letter or in the law and note the deadline end.
- Document defects: Take photos, keep a log and save emails.
- Use the form: Create a written defect notification or termination letter and send it via a verifiable method.
- Court steps: If necessary, file a lawsuit at the local court and present evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB §§535–580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Court of Justice – bundesgerichtshof.de
- Federal Ministry of Justice – bmj.de
