Initial Consultation for Tenants in WGs, Germany

If you live in a shared flat (WG) and are preparing for an initial consultation with a tenants' association or advice center in Germany, a clear structure helps: collect the tenancy agreement, handover protocol, correspondence with the landlord, evidence photos of defects, and bank or receipt proofs of rent payments. Note short chronologies of problems, dates and deadlines. These documents make it easier to assess rent reduction, termination or repair claims and save time during the consultation. Also bring questions about deadlines, possible forms and the further procedure so the advice center can name concrete steps. Also note names of witnesses and have possible cost estimates ready. This way you are timely and well prepared for the initial consultation.

What to bring to the initial consultation

For an efficient initial consultation, gather the most important documents and evidence in advance:

• Tenancy agreement (including amendments)
• Handover protocol
• Correspondence with the landlord (emails, letters)
• Photos or videos of defects
• Proofs of rent payments (bank statements, receipts)

Important deadlines and legal bases

Basic regulations on tenancy are in the BGB (e.g. §§ 535–580a)^[1]. For court procedures the ZPO is relevant, for example in eviction lawsuits or filing actions^[2]. Collect dates and times of all relevant letters and appointments.

• Check termination periods (deadline)
• Observe deadlines in eviction cases (deadline)
• Rent reduction: report defects in writing and set a deadline (deadline)

Forms and templates

Common templates and forms help to document your concerns clearly. Examples and usage:

• Termination letter (template from the Federal Ministry of Justice) – use the template when a roommate or you terminate; include the date and signature. Template and guidance^[3]
• Defect notice/deadline setting – write briefly which problem exists, since when and set a deadline (e.g. 14 days to remedy).
• Court applications – for lawsuits or enforcement applications use the forms or templates of the competent local court where available.

FAQ

Which documents do I need for the initial consultation?

Bring the tenancy agreement, handover protocol, correspondence with the landlord, photos/videos of defects and payment receipts.

How quickly must I react if I receive a termination?

Check the termination period immediately and seek advice; if in doubt you should react within the deadline to preserve rights.

Who helps with disputes in the shared flat?

Tenants' associations, advice centers and, if necessary, lawyers or the competent local court can assist.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents and evidence such as the tenancy agreement, photos and payment proofs.
2. Contact a tenants' association or advice center and arrange an appointment.
3. If necessary: file a lawsuit or application with the competent local court, possibly with support.
4. Observe all legal and contractual deadlines and prepare for appointments.

Key takeaways

• Preparation saves time: structured documents are crucial.
• Take deadlines seriously: delays can cost rights.
• Seek early help from tenants' associations or advice centers.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB (tenancy law)
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO (procedural law)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – tenancy decisions

---

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice: templates and guidance