Economic Use Eviction Guide for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, an eviction for "economic use" can arrive unexpectedly. This article explains in clear terms what rights you have as a tenant, which deadlines apply, and how to dispute or negotiate the termination precisely and lawfully. We name the relevant statutes, provide practical steps and a checklist so you can collect evidence, meet deadlines and, if necessary, inform the local Amtsgericht. This information helps you assess a termination and review your options in simple language.

What does "economic use" mean?

Economic use is an admissible reason for termination under the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) when the landlord has a legitimate interest in using the property differently or optimizing it economically. Typical reasons are conversions, extensive modernizations or sale with planned repurposing. The legal basis is § 573 BGB.^[1]

Tenants' rights and deadlines

As a tenant, special protection periods and formal requirements apply: The termination must be in writing and justified. Here are the main steps and rights you should note.

• Check the notice period and the date the termination was received; respond within the deadline.
• Request a detailed justification and, if necessary, evidence of the economic use from the landlord.
• Gather evidence: lease, correspondence, photos and witness statements as documentation.
• Seek legal advice or tenant counseling in your city before signing or moving out.

Concrete actions: When to object?

An objection makes sense if the justification is unclear, deadlines are incorrect or a milder measure is possible (e.g. negotiating alternative housing). Submit your objections in writing and state why the termination is insufficient.

Checklist: How tenants prepare a response

• Read the termination fully and mark date, deadline and justification.
• Request further documents from the landlord promptly to support the justification.
• Check for possible defects or modernization claims that might justify a rent reduction.
• Contact tenant counseling or the local Amtsgericht for initial guidance.

FAQ

What must a termination for economic use contain?

The termination must be in writing and clearly explain the landlord's legitimate interest so tenants can understand the reason.

Can I object to the termination?

Yes. You can present reasons against the use in writing within the deadline and provide evidence; legal advice is often recommended.

Where can I turn if the situation is unclear?

The competent Amtsgericht handles tenancy disputes; municipal tenant counseling services also offer first-line help.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents: lease, termination, correspondence and receipts.
2. Send a formal written response to the landlord within the deadline stating clear objections.
3. If no agreement is reached, inform the local Amtsgericht and consider defending against a eviction lawsuit.
4. Keep deadlines under review and act promptly to protect your rights.

Help and Support / Resources

• Termination Protection (§573 BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions

1. [1] BGB §573 - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - Decisions
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection - Information