Modernization Notice Checklist for Tenants Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a modernization notice can raise many questions: What exactly will be changed, who bears the costs, and how will it affect the rent? This guide explains step by step what to check, how to document modernization costs cleanly, and which proofs are useful. You will find practical examples and a short sample letter to assert your rights clearly and correctly toward the landlord. The notes are written in plain language and reference the relevant sections of tenancy law so you can react in Germany prepared and meet deadlines. Read on to get a checklist for review and subsequent actions.

What is included in a modernization notice?

A modernization notice must provide information on the type and scope of the measures, the planned start and the expected duration, as well as the anticipated costs and possible rent increases ^[1]. Check whether the notice was made in writing and whether all points are clearly named. Pay particular attention to concrete timeframes and individual works so that you can later compare implementation with the announcement.

Checklist: Review a modernization notice

• Check start and expected duration (deadline)
• Compare description of measures with the notice (notice)
• Check costs and possible rent increase (rent)
• Collect evidence: photos, invoices and receipts (evidence)
• Clarify access and appointments for craftsmen (entry)
• Check effects on heating, water and habitability (repair)
• Observe deadlines and react in writing if necessary (within)
• Consider contacting the local court or legal advice in case of dispute (court)

Documenting costs: examples and sample letter

Document modernization costs systematically: date, time, exact description, photo and invoice. Create a folder with electronic copies and keep a short log for each event. Example: "08.05.2024 painting in corridor, final invoice EUR 450.00, photo before/after, craftsman invoice as PDF." Such entries help if the landlord claims a rent increase due to modernization. Sample letter to the landlord: "Dear Mr/Ms X, please send me the detailed cost breakdown and receipts for the announced modernization as well as the basis for the calculated rent increase. Sincerely, Your Name." Use registered mail or email with read receipt and keep copies of all documents.

How to react? Deadlines and possible steps

• First contact the landlord and clarify open questions (call)
• Send a written request or objection and document receipt (notice)
• Collect and secure all evidence promptly (evidence)
• If necessary, consider involving the local court or legal advice (court)

FAQ

How much can the landlord raise the rent after modernization?

The landlord can generally pass on part of the modernization costs to the rent; check the exact legal basis and calculation according to the relevant sections ^[2].

Must the modernization be announced?

Yes, the measure must be announced in writing and include information on type, start and duration ^[1].

Who do I contact in case of disputes?

For tenancy disputes the local court is the first instance; higher courts such as the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice may decide in appeals ^[3].

How-To

1. Note start and duration of the announced works precisely (deadline)
2. Collect evidence: photos, invoices, and logs (evidence)
3. Send a sample letter to the landlord and document receipt (notice)
4. Consider legal advice or involvement of the local court if needed (court)

Help and Support

• [1] BGB §555b: Information on modernization
• [2] BGB §559: Rent increase after modernization
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions

1. [1] BGB §555b: Information on modernization
2. [2] BGB §559: Rent increase after modernization
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions