Heating Replacement 2025: Tenants in Germany Guide
As a tenant in Germany, you may be directly affected by a heating replacement under GEG 2025: new technology, notices from the landlord, possible cost allocations and short deadlines. This text explains in plain language which rights and duties tenants have, how to review notices, which forms or proofs are important and how to react to cost demands. I show typical mistakes such as missing documentation or reacting too late, and give practical steps for timely action and in case a dispute arises. The goal is that you as a tenant in Germany can decide confidently and protect your rights without legal expertise. I also explain how to collect evidence and which courts are competent if a lawsuit occurs.
What tenants need to know about the GEG transition
Landlords must announce modernization work and technical changes; at the same time §§ 535–580a BGB regulate obligations from the rental contract,[1] and the Building Energy Act (GEG) sets requirements for heating and efficiency.[2] For the distribution of heating and operating costs, the Heating Cost Ordinance is relevant.[3] As a tenant, you should check whether costs are legally allocable and whether the replacement is a structural measure or a repair.
Common mistakes
- Overlooking deadlines: no response to announcements or appointments.
- Accepting costs uncritically: agreeing to cost allocations without review.
- Lack of documentation: no photos or handover records at installation appointments.
- Unclear access: no written appointment for apartment access or key handover.
- Ignoring forms: not requesting important notifications or offers in writing.
Check in particular: Is the replacement technically necessary or a pure modernization? In the case of modernization, the landlord can allocate parts of the costs to tenants, but only under the conditions set out in the BGB and the Heating Cost Ordinance.[1][3] Document every appointment, every notification and all invoices to have evidence in case of dispute.
FAQ
- Can the landlord replace the heating and pass the costs on to me?
- In principle, the landlord can modernize, but the allocation of costs is subject to legal limits under the BGB and the Heating Cost Ordinance; check the specific cost breakdown and request a comprehensible invoice.[1][3]
- Which deadlines must I observe?
- Deadlines for objections or statements may be included in the announcement; respond in writing and on time to preserve rights. For court dates, the jurisdiction rules of the local court apply.[1]
- Can a tradesperson enter the apartment without my permission?
- Access is only permitted by agreement or by court order; request a written appointment and record key handovers.
- When can I claim rent reduction due to heating failure?
- If the usability is significantly impaired, tenants can claim a rent reduction. Documentation and legal advice help determine the amount.[1][4]
How-To
- Collect all previous notifications, photos and invoices as evidence.
- Check deadlines in the announcement and respond in writing within the stated time.
- Request a detailed cost breakdown and compare offers before consenting to cost allocation.
- Request required forms or offers in writing and file a reasoned objection if necessary.
- In case of dispute, consult the local court competent for tenancy disputes and present your documentation.[1]
Help and Support
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
- Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Miet law decisions
- Gebäudeenergiegesetz (GEG)
