Dorm WG Checklist for Tenants in Germany
When moving into a dorm as a WG, it is important to check responsibilities, house rules and tenant rights carefully before signing the lease. This guide explains in practical terms which points should be clarified in a WG arrangement, how utilities and the deposit should be recorded transparently, when repairs must be reported and which deadlines apply for termination or rent reduction. It is aimed at tenants in Germany who live in communal housing or take a WG room in a student dorm. Clear procedures reduce conflicts and make legal steps easier to plan. Read the checklist and document agreements in writing. If uncertain, seek legal advice or tenant protection information. The following sections explain authorities, forms and practical procedures.
What to check before signing
Lease and WG rules
Carefully check the lease for duration, fixed-term clauses, subletting and special WG provisions. Legal foundations can be found in the Civil Code (BGB)[1] and procedural matters in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)[2]. Clarify whether the dorm administration imposes additional rules and how responsibilities are distributed.
- Check deadlines (deadline): contract duration, notice periods and fixed-term clauses.
- Clarify deposit (deposit): amount, handling and repayment conditions.
- Utilities breakdown (rent): billing and allocation keys to review.
- Repairs (repair): record responsibilities, reporting channels and deadlines.
- House rules and forms (form): supplement rules on cleaning, quiet hours and visitors in writing.
- Keys and access (entry): agree on key distribution and privacy.
- Legal consequences (court): clarify liability, subletting and possible legal routes.
Keep all agreements in writing.
Documentation and evidence
Document the condition and defects at move-in with photos, dates and written handover records. Note phone calls and emails with the landlord or administration, because comprehensive documentation makes later steps such as rent reduction or claims easier.
- Create photos and a handover protocol and record the date.
- Secure written correspondence: emails, chat logs and reports.
- Record contact details for landlord, property manager and housemates.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
How-To
- Read the contract (form): understand all clauses and note unclear terms.
- Break down costs (rent): check rent, utilities and deposit.
- Clarify repair procedure (repair): set reporting channels and deadlines.
- Organize move-in (move-in): create a handover protocol and document key transfer.
- Consider legal steps (court): know the local court (Amtsgericht) as first instance.
FAQ
- Who pays the deposit and how is it refunded?
- The deposit is usually paid by the tenant; the amount and refund must be regulated in the lease. Keep receipts and request a final account after moving out.
- What notice periods apply for a WG room?
- Notice periods depend on the lease and the legal provisions in the BGB. In many cases statutory notice periods apply; fixed-term contracts follow special rules.
- Who is responsible for repairs in the dorm?
- Generally the tenant reports damage to the property manager or landlord; responsibility depends on contractual agreements.
