Initial Tenant Consultation for WG Tenants in Germany

An initial consultation is often the first step for tenants in shared flats (WGs) in Germany to clarify rental issues such as rent increases, termination, or repair defects. Well prepared, you save time and increase the chance of finding concrete solutions. This guide explains which documents you should collect, how to document defects and communication with the landlord, and which deadlines in tenancy law are important. It helps WG members prepare targeted questions, identify competent authorities such as the local court, and use appropriate sample forms. We provide practical checklists, advice for internal WG coordination, and tips on how to organize evidence systematically.

Preparing for the initial consultation

Before the appointment, set clear goals: is it about a rent reduction, a repair, termination protection, or billing issues? Write down the key questions and prioritize them. It is also important to know who in the WG has authority to speak and act.

• Collect the tenancy agreement and any amendments.
• Provide recent rent payments and bank statements as proof.
• Photos and dates for defects and damages.
• Correspondence with the landlord, emails and written notices.
• Notes on deadlines, e.g. for defect notifications or termination periods.

Which forms and laws apply?

Key regulations in tenancy law are found in the German Civil Code (BGB), in particular regarding landlord duties and tenant rights such as rent reduction and protection from termination ^[1]. There is no single mandatory form for every situation, but the ministry's sample termination letter or template letters help with formal correspondence ^[3]. Procedural rules for court actions are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).

Practical checklist for WG members

• Who is listed on the lease and who pays which share?
• List of defects with date, location and photos.
• All letters to the landlord listed chronologically.
• Contact details of roommates and potential witnesses.

What happens after the initial consultation?

The consultation usually ends with concrete next steps: sample texts for defect notifications or terminations, advice on deadlines and evidence preservation, and orientation to competent bodies such as the local court for tenancy disputes ^[2]. Write down recommended deadlines and who in the WG will handle each task.

FAQ

What is an initial consultation and when is it useful?

An initial consultation clarifies your rights and possible steps for issues like defects, rent increases or termination and is useful once there is uncertainty about rights or deadlines.

Which documents do I need for the consultation?

Bring the lease, proof of payments, correspondence with the landlord, photos of defects and a short chronology of events.

Who decides on tenancy disputes?

The local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for many tenancy cases; higher instances include the regional court and, for precedent, the Federal Court of Justice.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents and arrange them chronologically.
2. Create a short summary of the problem with dates, facts and desired outcome.
3. Note any deadlines that have been set or must be observed.
4. Bring sample letters or note recommended phrasing suggested during the consultation.
5. Discuss within the WG who signs legally or makes decisions.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code and other laws (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Information from the Federal Court of Justice (bundesgerichtshof.de)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (bmj.de)

---

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Court responsibilities (justiz.de)
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice - templates and information (bmj.de)