Initial Advice for Tenants in Germany: Prepare Optimally
As a tenant in Germany, you may face complex issues such as termination, rent reduction or necessary repairs. An initial consultation at a tenants' association or advisory centre can clarify steps, deadlines and required evidence. This article explains step by step how to optimally prepare an initial consultation: which documents are important, which deadlines to observe, how to document defects and which official forms and courts in Germany are relevant. The advice is practical and in plain language so that you can appear confident at the legal consultation and protect your rights as a tenant. You will receive concrete tips on prioritising evidence, communicating with the landlord and using official sample forms. We also list contact points such as tenants' associations, local courts and official forms so you can present your case on time and effectively.
What to bring to the initial consultation
For an initial consultation, clarity and documentation matter. Bring copies of the most important documents and arrange them chronologically so the consultation can be focused and timely.
- Tenancy agreement and handover protocol (document)
- Handover protocol and previous defect notifications (document)
- Payment receipts, rent payments and deposit proof (receipt)
- Photos, videos or measurement records of defects (photo)
- Correspondence with the landlord, reminders and formal letters (form)
- Heating and utility bills (document)
Documents, laws and deadlines
The legal basis relevant to the consultation includes the rights and duties under the German Civil Code (BGB) for tenancy relationships and procedural rules in civil procedure law. Tell your adviser all relevant deadlines and dates so the consultation can include verifiable steps.[1][2]
How to document defects and damages
Documentation increases the chances of success: date, place, visible damage, chronological sequence and witnesses matter. Use clearly labelled photos and keep a defect log with date and time.
- Photos and videos with date and context (photo)
- Written defect notification to the landlord (form)
- Witness statements and repair invoices (document)
Communication with the landlord
Formulate claims clearly and observe deadlines. Send defect notifications by e-mail and additionally by post as registered mail if deadlines are important. Note phone calls with date and contact person.
- Defect notification by registered mail (form)
- Document telephone contacts: date, time, content (contact)
- Collect landlord responses (document)
When a court becomes relevant
If out-of-court steps fail, an application to the local court or a lawsuit may be necessary. For tenancy disputes, the local court is often competent in the first instance; in special cases, decisions may reach the Federal Court of Justice.[3]
- Consider eviction proceedings or agreements on eviction (court)
- Consider filing a payment order for arrears (court)
How-To
- Collect all key documents and evidence such as the tenancy agreement, payment receipts, photos and correspondence (document).
- Note all relevant deadlines and dates so the consultation can be timely (deadline).
- Create a short chronological summary of the problem for the adviser (form).
- Arrange an appointment with a tenants' association, advisory centre or legal adviser (contact).
- Implement recommended steps and observe further deadlines (court).
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does an initial consultation cost?
- Many tenants' associations offer reduced or contribution-based initial consultations; municipal advisory centres often provide free initial meetings.
- Which deadlines must I observe?
- Pay special attention to deadlines given in your letters or mentioned during the consultation; deadlines can affect the enforceability of your claims.
- Are there official sample forms?
- Yes, for certain procedures (e.g. payment order) there are official forms and guidance from the judiciary; your adviser will show you the relevant forms.
Help and Support / Resources
- German Civil Code (BGB) on gesetze-im-internet.de
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) on gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) official site
