Digital Building Communication: Tenant Rights Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you increasingly receive messages from landlords via digital building communication such as emails, portals or WhatsApp. If messages are incorrect, incomplete or unlawful, you should respond early and factually. This guide explains step by step how to properly contest digital messages, which sample forms and deadlines apply, which evidence is important and when going to the local court may become necessary. We explain relevant legal bases (e.g. BGB)^[1], name official forms, show practical wording for letters to the landlord and give tips on data protection and secure documentation. This way you protect your rights without escalation.

What to do about faulty digital notifications?

Start with a clear written defect notice. Digital communications are generally effective if they reach the recipient; nevertheless, deadlines and formal requirements apply. Document every communication, save messages and take screenshots of portal entries or chat histories.

Defect notice: Contents and evidence

• Set a deadline: Request elimination within a concrete deadline (e.g. 14 days).
• Use a sample form: Use standardized wording or a termination/defect letter as a template.
• Secure evidence: Photos, chat logs and log files document condition and time.

If the landlord does not respond, check whether a rent reduction is appropriate or whether you can have the defect remedied at the landlord's expense. In many cases, deadlines and setting a grace period are important to strengthen your legal position.

For formal questions about service, deadline calculation or initiating a lawsuit, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent for first-instance tenancy cases^[2]. Before legal proceedings, check whether an amicable settlement or mediation is possible.

Electronic communication also raises data protection issues: not all platforms are suitable for legally relevant service. If in doubt, request confirmation by email with date and time or a printed copy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I report defects via WhatsApp?

Yes, if the landlord uses the channel and the message reaches the recipient; however, secure evidence such as screenshots and timestamps.

Which deadline should I set?

Deadlines of 7–14 days are common for small defects; in case of imminent danger, immediate action may be required.

When should I go to the local court?

If the landlord does not act despite a grace period or the case concerns eviction, protection against termination or higher dispute values, a lawsuit at the local court may be necessary.

How-To

1. Set a deadline: Draft a clear grace period (e.g. 14 days) and specify desired measures.
2. Send a sample text: Use a standardized letter by email with read receipt or registered delivery.
3. Secure evidence: Save photos, invoices and chat logs in chronological order.
4. Inform the local court: If necessary, file a lawsuit or seek legal advice for litigation preparation.

Key Takeaways

• Observe deadlines to avoid losing claims.
• Good documentation increases chances of success for rent reductions or lawsuits.
• For unclear legal situations, the local court can issue binding decisions.

Help and Support / Resources

• Contact: Federal Ministry of Justice (forms and information)
• Forms and statutes: BGB, ZPO online
• Courts: Federal Court of Justice – tenancy decisions

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice — sample forms and guidance