Coordinating Flatshare Terminations for Tenants in Germany

Many commuters live in flatshares and face the challenge of coordinating a termination so that commuting, rent payments and handovers do not get mixed up. This article explains in practical terms which legal deadlines apply under the BGB, which forms can be used and how you as a tenant in Germany can avoid conflicts in the flatshare. You will learn how termination deadlines are calculated, what role written evidence and handover reports play, and when a conversation with the landlord or a court clarification at the local court may be necessary. The guidance is written in plain language and includes checklists as well as references to official forms and competent authorities. Practical templates and examples help you get started.

Legal basics

The rules of the German Civil Code (BGB) apply to tenancy relationships, in particular the provisions on the rights and obligations of landlords and tenants. In disputes, the competent local court decides in the first instance; in appeals, the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice may be involved.^[1]

Types of termination and deadlines

As a tenant you can lawfully terminate; in a flatshare it is important who is named in the lease and who may terminate. Pay attention to contractually agreed deadlines and special rules in subletting relationships.

• Check and calculate deadlines (deadlines) to ensure multiple moves do not collide.
• Create and sign a written termination (notice/form) — the tenant named in the contract must sign.
• Organise a handover appointment and prepare a handover report (record/document) for evidence.
• Clarify rent payments and deposit (rent/deposit), who reclaims or transfers which share.

Practical note on the termination letter

There is usually no nationwide official form for tenant termination; the important thing is a written form with a personal signature and the indication of the termination date and the apartment address. A simple template is often sufficient, e.g. date, address line, clear termination statement and signature.

FAQ

Who can terminate in a flatshare?

Only the persons named as tenants in the lease can end the tenancy; subtenants usually need the main tenant's consent.

How long are the termination deadlines?

The statutory termination periods depend on the lease and the BGB; check your contract and calculate deadlines in good time.

What to do in case of disputes within the flatshare about the termination?

Try to resolve the issue internally first; if necessary, document agreements in writing and contact the local court or legal advice.

How-To

1. Check the lease and calculate the termination period (deadline).
2. Prepare a written termination with date and signature (notice).
3. Arrange the handover and prepare a handover report (record).
4. Settle the deposit and return the keys on move-out (move-out).

Key takeaways

• Check deadlines (deadlines) early so moving and work do not clash.
• Secure documentation (record) such as reports and proofs to avoid later conflicts.
• Agree on deposit (deposit) and payments clearly to prevent unclear claims.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — legal portal
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — case law on tenancy
• Justice portal — information on local courts

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Justizportal — Information on courts and responsibilities
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice — Jurisprudence and decisions