First Consultation Checklist for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, an initial consultation about rent, eviction, or repairs can make a difference. This guide helps shared-flat residents collect the necessary documents, deadlines, and questions for a successful appointment, organize evidence, and understand their rights. It is aimed at people without legal training: clear steps on which documents matter, how to photograph damage, and what courts or advisory offices typically expect. With pragmatic checklists, notes on official forms and contact points, you quickly find orientation, save time during consultation and increase the chance that your case is taken seriously. Read on for concrete steps.
Preparation for the First Consultation
Before the appointment, summarize the key facts in writing, note timelines and check which duties landlords have under the statutory provisions (e.g., maintenance duties under tenancy law, §§ 535–580a BGB).[1]
Detailed documentation increases your chances in consultations and court proceedings.
- Document: Tenancy agreement (document) – complete copies of all pages and amendments.
- Document: Correspondence (document) – emails, letters, handover protocols and tenant notices.
- Evidence: Photos/Video (photo) – clear date stamps, before/after comparisons and meter readings.
- Money: Deposit proof (deposit) – bank statements or receipts of payment and return.
- Time: Check deadlines (calendar) – dates of reminders, terminations and statutory deadlines.
- Notice: Forms and applications (form) – print applications for rent reduction or defect notification if applicable.
Also note contact persons (property manager, landlord, contractors) with dates and times of all conversations. For court actions, the local district court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible for civil matters such as eviction suits or claims for rent reduction.[2]
Keep originals secure and provide copies only during consultations.
FAQ
- What should I bring to the first consultation?
- Bring the tenancy agreement, correspondence, photos of damage, billing statements, deposit proofs and a short chronology of events.
- Can I reduce rent due to mold?
- If the habitability is significantly affected, a rent reduction may be possible; document damages, report them in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repairs.
- Who decides complex legal questions?
- Important precedents are often decided by the Federal Court of Justice (BGH); local disputes usually start at the district court (Amtsgericht).[3]
How-To
- Gather documents – collect all relevant papers and order them chronologically.
- Create a timeline – make a clear chronology with dates and involved parties.
- Secure photos and evidence – photograph damage with dates and store copies in multiple locations.
- Book a consultation – arrange a meeting with advisory services or tenant associations and send copies of documents in advance.
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code § 535 ff. (gesetze-im-internet.de)
- Court and jurisdiction overview (justiz.de)
- Federal Court of Justice – case law (bundesgerichtshof.de)
