Dorm Shared Flat: Tenant Mistakes in Germany
In shared dorm flats, the same problems often occur: unclear agreements, missing responsibilities for repairs, and uncertainty about deadlines. This text is for tenants in Germany and explains simple steps to avoid conflicts, apply tenant law clearly, and meet formal obligations. The guidance helps to systematically resolve issues such as rent payments, house rules, repairs and notice periods. Where necessary we refer to key laws and court responsibilities so you know when a conversation suffices and when formal steps are needed.[1]
Typical mistakes and why they cause problems
Many disputes arise not from bad intent but from lack of clarity. The following mistakes are common and can be avoided with simple rules.
- No written agreements on use and costs lead to misunderstandings about utility charges and cleaning duties.
- Unclear arrangements about rent or deposit cause payment shortfalls and distrust.
- Repairs are not reported or organized late, which can reduce habitability.
- Missing rules on visitors, keys or privacy lead to conflicts between roommates.
Concrete rules that help immediately
Clear written agreements create reliability. Add a brief house rule to the tenancy agreement of no more than one page: who is responsible for cleaning, how costs are shared and how to handle repairs. For important deadlines (termination, defect notifications) document every step.
- Document defects with date and photos so there is evidence for rent reduction or compensation.
- Written agreements (email or signed addendum) are much stronger than verbal arrangements in disputes.
- Respond within statutory or contractual deadlines; missing deadlines can cost rights.
Important forms and legal bases
There is no single federal "form" for every shared flat situation, but for formal steps the following documents and sources are central:
- Termination letter (tenant): A written, signed termination is required; follow the BGB requirements on form and notice periods.[1]
- Eviction claim / filing a lawsuit: Court forms and guidance are available from the competent local court or the justice portal.[4]
- Payment order and enforcement: For payment disputes the ZPO rules apply; inform yourself about the payment order procedure and deadlines.[2]
Practical example: If a roommate repeatedly fails to pay, send a written payment reminder with a deadline first. If payment does not follow, the payment order (Mahnverfahren) can be the next step under the ZPO.[2]
What to do about defects and rent reduction
If heating, water or other essential facilities fail, report the defect immediately in writing to the landlord. Give a reasonable deadline for repair; if there is no timely remediation, rent reduction may be considered. The legal basis is in the BGB.[1]
FAQ
- How long is the notice period for tenants in Germany?
- The statutory notice period for tenants is generally three months unless the rental agreement specifies otherwise; landlords face graduated notice periods depending on the tenancy duration (BGB).
- Can I reduce rent if the heating does not work?
- Yes, for significant impairments (e.g., lack of heating) rent reduction may be possible if the landlord does not remedy the defect in time; document defect and deadlines in writing.
- Who is responsible for repairs?
- Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintenance; short minor repairs can be contractually assigned to tenants if agreed.
How-To
- Write down the problem and set a deadline for repair.
- Take timestamped photos and save messages and invoices.
- Contact the landlord or property manager first and record the conversation.
- If necessary, send a formal payment request or reminder.
- If no solution is reached, consider court action at the local court or seek official advice.
Key takeaways
- Create short written rules for costs and cleaning to avoid disputes.
- Keep an inventory and signed handover records at move-in and move-out.
