Enforce Meter Readings for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the problem of documenting and enforcing meter readings at move-in, move-out or on reading deadlines. This guide explains clearly what rights you have as a tenant, which deadlines matter, how to record meter readings correctly and which official laws and courts are relevant. We show practical steps for preserving evidence, how to write letters to the landlord, which forms may be relevant at the local court and when a lawsuit or rent reduction may be appropriate. You will learn which photos and meter logs are binding, how to inform the energy supplier and which documents to present to the local court. At the end you will find a clear checklist and tips on organizing evidence systematically.

What to check before readings

First check your lease provisions and your rights as a tenant, in particular the landlord's duty to maintain the rental property under the BGB^[1]. Pay attention to billing periods and heating cost rules under the Heating Costs Ordinance^[2] and operating cost rules under the Operating Costs Ordinance^[3].

• Take photos of the meter and the meter reading
• Note date and time and describe the reading situation
• Request the signature of the reader or add your own signature
• Store meter readings electronically and make backups

How to document meter readings securely

Create a short protocol with photo, date, time and reading. Send this protocol by registered mail or email with read receipt to the landlord and keep proof of dispatch. If you later go to court, the rules of the Civil Procedure Code for documents and evidence apply^[4].

• Create a protocol with a clear date and time stamp
• Secure photos of the meter with a clearly readable display
• Keep proof of sending (registered mail or PDF of the email)
• Document contact with the energy supplier

If the landlord does not respond

If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, send a second deadline notice and state that you may submit evidence to the competent local court^[5]. Check relevant Federal Court of Justice decisions on burden of proof and reading practices to support your arguments^[6].

Frequently Asked Questions

Who documents the meter reading at move-in?

As a rule, the tenant documents the meter reading at move-in and informs the landlord and the energy supplier in writing.

Can I challenge the utility bill due to incorrect meter readings?

Yes, you can object and request documents; in case of dispute the local court can decide.

What deadlines apply for objections to bills?

Pay attention to statutory limitation and objection deadlines in tenancy law and document your objections promptly.

How-To

1. Take photos of the meter and record date and time
2. Send the protocol to the landlord by registered mail or email
3. Set a deadline if there is no response and consider legal steps
4. Submit documents to the local court if necessary

Help and Support

• Civil Code and other federal laws
• Information on courts and jurisdiction
• Federal Court of Justice: decisions and guidance

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
5. [5] Local courts information — justiz.de
6. [6] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de