Meter Reading Checklist: Tenant Rights in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, it is important to prepare interim meter readings securely under the law. This guide helps you understand deadlines, forms and evidence so you can avoid billing disputes with your landlord. We explain in plain language which steps are necessary before, during and after the reading, which official forms may be relevant and how to document proof. Use the checklist to schedule appointments, record meter readings clearly and inform the responsible parties. The guidance is aimed at tenants without legal expertise and takes into account the relevant regulations in Germany. At the end you will find templates for notifying the landlord and tips on how to file objections or present documents if there are discrepancies.
What is an interim meter reading?
An interim meter reading records the current meter reading of electricity, water or heating between two billing periods. It serves to allocate consumption correctly and to avoid incorrect back-charges. Legal bases for landlord and tenant obligations are found in the Civil Code (BGB), in particular regarding duties and billing obligations.[1]
Preparation: Checklist for tenants
- Arrange an appointment for the reading with the landlord or property manager in good time.
- Record the date and time and the names of all persons present.
- Take clear photos of the meter readings and meter numbers as evidence.
- Keep a reading protocol with meter readings, signatures and date.
- Observe deadlines: note the date and act within any specified timeframes if a correction is necessary.
Forms & templates
There is no single nationwide mandatory form for interim readings, but written evidence is important. Use a reading protocol that includes date, meter number, meter reading and signatures. For general templates such as termination or objection letters, guidance and samples can be consulted at the Federal Ministry of Justice.[2]
Example: Notification to the landlord
Write briefly: date, affected meter (e.g. electricity meter no.), recorded reading, note attached photos and request confirmation by email or letter. Sign the protocol and have it countersigned by the landlord or the person taking the reading.
In case of dispute: courts and deadlines
If an agreement with the landlord cannot be reached, local courts (Amtsgericht) and possibly higher courts (Landgericht) are competent in tenancy disputes; procedural rules are in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).[3] Check deadlines for objections or appeals in the billing and collect all evidence before taking further steps.
- Collect all evidence: photos, protocols, emails and invoices.
- Send a formal notification or objection in writing and in a provable way (e.g. registered mail).
- Pay attention to limitation periods and response deadlines in the billing.
FAQ
- Do I have to be present as a tenant during an interim meter reading?
- You do not always have to be present, but presence allows immediate confirmation of the meter reading and prevents later doubts.
- What if the landlord states an incorrect meter reading?
- Document the reading you know with photos and a protocol, object in writing and request a correction or review.
- What deadlines apply for objections to the bill?
- Deadlines depend on the type of billing; act as quickly as possible and follow the notes in the bill and legal requirements.
How-To
- Contact: Arrange an appointment with the landlord or property manager and confirm it in writing.
- Keep a protocol: Record meter numbers, readings, date and signatures of all involved.
- Secure evidence: Take clear photos of the meters, save them with timestamps and attach them to the billing.
- Follow up: Send the protocol to the landlord and request a receipt or response within a deadline.
Help and Support
- BGB §§ 535–580a: Civil Code (BGB)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - case law on tenancy law
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - procedural rules
