Conversion Freeze and Tenant Rights in Germany
Many tenants are unsure what a conversion freeze means after a property conversion and how medical certificates can affect deadlines. This article explains in plain terms which rights tenants have in Germany, which legal bases apply and which practical steps are sensible if landlords serve notice or plan a change of use. You will learn when a conversion freeze applies, which exceptions medical certificates can support and how to collect deadlines, evidence and forms. The information helps you make decisions, meet deadlines and, if necessary, contact the competent courts or advisory services. Check your documents early so you can effectively protect your tenant rights in Germany.
When does the conversion freeze apply?
The conversion freeze often applies when apartments are converted into condominiums or the use is changed. The rules of tenancy law in the BGB (Sections 535–580a) and supplementary provisions are decisive; in legal disputes the procedural rules of the ZPO also apply.[1] In many cases the freeze prevents immediate evictions or owner-occupancy terminations for a defined period after conversion.
- Check deadlines: Immediately check the dates and deadlines stated in any notice.
- Collect certificates: Obtain medical certificates promptly documenting duration and urgency.
- Secure evidence: Gather photos, emails and copies of the lease and date them.
- Seek advice: Contact local tenant advice or a lawyer before deadlines expire.
Certificates and exceptions
Medical certificates can, in certain cases, extend a freeze or support a hardship exception when health and housing are closely linked. A certificate should clearly explain why a move is medically unreasonable and include time references. Procedural rules under the ZPO are important for disputes because there are deadlines for filing claims and applications.[2]
What to do as a tenant?
Act in a structured way: document everything, collect certificates, check the reasons for termination and get legal advice. Relevant procedures include a written claim for eviction, an application for a payment order if arrears exist, and formal termination letters; many courts provide templates or guidance. Filings are typically made at the local Amtsgericht in Germany; addresses and form offerings are available from justice authorities.[3]
- Note deadlines: Mark appeal and claim deadlines in your calendar.
- Obtain forms: Get claim or enforcement application forms from the Amtsgericht or justice portal.
- Arrange advice: Make an appointment with tenant advice or a lawyer promptly.
FAQ
- What is a conversion freeze after conversion?
- The conversion freeze is a time-based protection that prevents tenants from immediate termination or eviction after certain changes such as conversion.
- Can medical certificates extend the conversion freeze?
- Yes, certificates can be considered hardship grounds and influence deadlines or decisions if they demonstrate that moving is unreasonable for health reasons.
- Where do I turn when served notice?
- Contact the local Amtsgericht for proceedings or local tenant advice and carefully review forms and deadlines.
How-To
- Check deadlines: Read the notice and note all relevant dates.
- Collect certificates: Schedule a doctor appointment and obtain a precise medical certificate.
- Submit forms: Obtain claim or enforcement application forms from the Amtsgericht and file them on time.
- Court steps: If necessary, file the claim at the Amtsgericht and present your evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- German Civil Code (BGB) online
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) online
- Information and addresses of the Amtsgerichte
