Document Internet in Dormitory – Tenant Rights Germany

In a dormitory, poor or missing internet can significantly disrupt daily life. As a tenant in Germany, you should document clearly when the connection repeatedly fails, is slow, or violates house rules. This article explains which steps to take, which deadlines matter, and which types of evidence help in court and in talks with the landlord. We show practically how to create logs, screenshots and written defect notices, which sample letters for termination or rent reduction are relevant, and which courts are competent.

What applies in dormitories?

Dormitories often have house rules that regulate the use of networks or shared infrastructure. Nevertheless, the landlord's basic obligations under the German Civil Code (BGB) remain, such as the duty to maintain and ensure the usability of the rented property^[1]. In case of internet disruptions, it depends on whether the outage is part of the conditions the landlord must ensure or caused by external providers.

How to collect evidence

• Photos (photo) and screenshots of error messages and connection drops.
• Logs and records (log) of speed tests with date and time.
• Date and time (time) entries for repeated outages, ideally with at least three documented events.
• Witness contacts (contact): roommates or caretakers who can confirm disruptions.

Forms and templates

Important forms and template letters tenants can use include a formal defect notice, a template letter for rent reduction and a termination letter. In the defect notice state clearly: what does not work, since when the defect exists, which evidence exists and which deadline you set. Example: "Please restore the internet connection by [date]; otherwise I reserve the right to reduce rent."

Legal paths and deadlines

If the landlord remains inactive, tenants can assert their rights: rent reduction, damages or, in severe cases, termination. The local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for many tenancy disputes; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and fundamental legal questions to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH)^[3]. The rules of civil procedure are found in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2].

FAQ

Who pays if the internet fails?

It depends on the contract and cause: If the line fails outside the landlord's control, the provider is usually responsible; if failure is due to operator or landlord negligence, the landlord may be liable.

Can I reduce the rent?

Yes, for significant impairment of usability a rent reduction may be possible; documentation and setting a deadline are important.

Where do I turn in case of dispute?

For unresolved disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; for fundamental issues decisions of the regional court or the BGH may be relevant.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, screenshots, speed test logs (log) with date and time.
2. Write a formal defect notice (notice) to the landlord and send it with proof of delivery.
3. Set a reasonable deadline (time) for remedy and document the response.
4. If no solution occurs, consider legal action at the local court (court) and seek legal advice if needed.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §535
• [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO (procedural rules)
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – information and decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §535
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO (procedural rules)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – information and decisions