Check Heating Bills for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you need to understand the heating cost statement to avoid unjustified additional charges or errors. This guide explains in plain language which entries may be missing, how to check consumption figures, which deadlines apply and which official rules such as the heating cost regulation apply. You will get practical checking steps, a sample letter for shared flats and guidance on when to request inspection of documents or file an objection. The advice is written for tenants without legal expertise and names the competent courts as well as form and deadline hints. At the end you will find a short checklist, FAQ, a step-by-step guide and official links for further steps in Germany. Use the sample letters to respond formally and on time.
How the heating cost statement works
The heating cost statement in Germany is based on the Heating Costs Ordinance [1] and the Operating Costs Ordinance. Landlords settle costs proportionally by consumption and/or living area; basic and consumption costs are often shown separately. Check whether the billing period, meter readings and allocation key are plausible and whether all listed items have supporting documents.
Key checks for tenants
- Check meter readings, consumption and the billing period (document).
- Verify cost allocation: compare basic costs versus consumption costs.
- Request receipts and invoices: ask for inspection of records in writing and specify the documents requested.
- Check heating equipment: major deviations can indicate measurement or operational errors.
- Observe deadlines: respond within the usual two to twelve months after receiving the statement.
Errors, objections and a sample letter for shared flats
If you find inconsistencies, first request documents and calculate your share. For shared flats, a short, clear sample letter that names residents and the allocation in the household, lists the disputed items and sets a deadline is useful. In your letter, cite the legal basis, e.g. the Operating Costs Ordinance [2] and relevant tenancy rights from the BGB [3]. Keep copies and proof of dispatch.
FAQ
- How do I obtain inspection of the billing documents?
- Send an informal request by letter or e‑mail, specify the documents you want and keep a copy of your request.
- What deadlines apply for objections to the statement?
- There is no uniform statutory deadline for objections, but respond as soon as possible within a few weeks; procedural deadlines apply for court actions.
- What do I do about major calculation errors?
- Document the errors in writing, request correction and, if necessary, seek legal advice; as a last resort you can sue at the local court.
How-To
- Within 14 days: Check whether the statement is formally complete.
- Within 4 weeks: Request missing documents in writing.
- Within 3 months: Calculate your consumption share and compare it to the statement.
- If necessary: Send a sample letter to the landlord and set a clear deadline for a response.
- If unresolved: Consider advice and possibly suing at the local court.
Key Takeaways
- Documentation secures evidence for disputes.
- Immediate checking prevents large subsequent claims.
Help and Support / Resources
- Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
- Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV)
- German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a
