Check Deadlines Before Signing for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should know deadlines and formalities before signing. This text explains in plain language which dates matter, how to preserve claims by meeting deadlines, and which documents you should have ready. It is written for tenants without legal training and gives concrete steps for move-in inspections, reporting defects, and handling the security deposit. You will learn when to respond in writing, which evidence is useful, and which courts or authorities may become involved. Practical tips help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your rights in Germany.

Before Signing: Checklist for Tenants

Before you sign the lease, go through these points and collect evidence. Write down dates and deadlines immediately.

• Check deadlines: clarify notice periods, withdrawal deadlines, and deadlines for defect notices.
• Security deposit: document amount, payment method and repayment conditions.
• Record defects: take photos, note dates and report immediately.
• Prepare forms: collect ID, proof of payments and previous statements.
• Handover protocol: insist on a detailed protocol and keep a copy.

Deadlines, Claims and Documentation

Your rights as a tenant are regulated in the Civil Code; relevant provisions on duties and defects are found in §§ 535–580a BGB^[1]. Court procedures follow the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2]. If a claim must be preserved by deadline, that means: react, document and, if necessary, sue in time.

• Defect notice: report immediately, at the latest within a few days after discovery, in writing.
• Gather evidence: keep photos, witness statements, protocols and invoices.
• Observe formal deadlines: check objection and payment deadlines.
• Legal action: tenancy disputes usually start at the local court.

What to do if the landlord does not respond?

If the landlord does not react to defect notices or inquiries, document contact attempts and set a reasonable deadline for remedy. Consider tenant counseling or legal steps if necessary.

How-To

1. Step 1: Photograph defects immediately and report them in writing to the landlord.
2. Step 2: Have a handover protocol created and signed.
3. Step 3: Note deadlines and plan next steps if a deadline passes.
4. Step 4: If no response, seek legal advice or consider filing a claim at the local court.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do I have to report defects?

You should report defects as soon as possible; practically that means within a few days after discovery and certainly before any contractually specified deadlines expire.

Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?

Yes, if the usability is significantly impaired, a rent reduction may be possible; document the scope and duration of the failure and inform the landlord in writing.

Which court do I turn to in a tenancy dispute?

Tenancy disputes are usually heard at the local court; appeals go to the regional court and in exceptional cases to the Federal Court of Justice^[3].

Help and Support / Resources

• §§ 535–580a BGB overview
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - official site

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Official Site