Enforce Interim Readings for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, correct interim meter readings are important to fairly allocate service charges, heating costs and the deposit. This guide explains how tenants can enforce interim readings using photos, meet deadlines and secure receipts. You will learn which forms and proofs are helpful, how to document appointments with the landlord and what rights exist if the landlord refuses. Practical templates, references to official laws such as the BGB and the competence of local courts (Amtsgericht) and higher courts are briefly explained. The aim is for tenants to act confidently and prepared, avoid disputes or succeed in court with clear documentation. Practical tips explain photo and timestamping, witness records and written deadlines; examples also show how to submit forms correctly.
Why interim readings matter
Interim readings protect tenants from incorrect service and heating cost statements. Without documented values, additional payments or unclear allocations can arise. Therefore, record meter readings in writing and supplement them with photo or video recordings showing date and time.[1]
What to document
- Photos of the meter showing date and time
- Noted meter readings in a protocol or log
- Written request to the landlord for reading (by email or registered mail)
- Witnesses or neighbors as confirmation, if possible
Applicable laws and regulations
Relevant legal bases include provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) on tenancy and the Heating Costs Ordinance for heating cost accounting. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) often decides; higher instances are the Landgericht and Federal Court of Justice. Use these legal sources to understand deadlines and obligations and to draft claims correctly.[1][2][3]
How to proceed: checklist
- Arrange an appointment immediately with date and time
- Take clear photos of each relevant meter
- Send a written request or reminder to the landlord
- Report defects preventing reading (e.g. broken meters) immediately
- Keep all receipts and emails organized
If the landlord refuses the reading, set a short written deadline and state that you will document the interim reading yourself and possibly take legal action. A template letter for the request is useful and can be customized.
Forms and templates (practical)
There is no single official "interim reading form number"; most tenants use their own template letters. Useful templates include:
- Written request for interim reading (template) — request date, time and access
- Documentation protocol for meter readings — date, meter number, reading, name of recorder
- Photo evidence list with file names and timestamps
Example: Send the landlord an email with a suggested date and a 14-day deadline; if there is no response, document yourself and note attempted contact.
FAQ
- Who pays if a meter is faulty?
- If a meter fault occurs, landlord and tenant clarify the cause; the landlord often bears costs for replacement or correction, and unilateral billing should be avoided until clarification.
- Can I read meters myself as a tenant?
- Yes, you can read and document meters yourself; inform the landlord and send photos or the protocol as evidence.
- Which deadlines matter?
- Watch statutory and contractual deadlines for submitting accounts and objections; missing them can lead to evidentiary disadvantages.
How-To
- Arrange appointment: Request a reading appointment in writing with date and time.
- Take photos: Photograph the meter clearly with visible date/time.
- Document: Enter readings, meter numbers and circumstances in a protocol.
- Submit evidence: Send documentation to the landlord by email or registered mail.
- Legal action: If necessary, prepare documents for the local court (Amtsgericht).
Key Takeaways
- Photo evidence with timestamps improves your legal position.
- Written requests and deadlines are essential steps.
- The Amtsgericht is usually the first court for tenancy disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB §§535–580a - Civil Code (BGB)
- Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) - Gesetze im Internet
- Courts and jurisdictions - justiz.de
