Dorm Internet for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in dorms wonder how to organize internet access fairly and what rights they have in Germany. This guide explains step by step how residents can safely share a connection, agree on access rules and resolve technical and legal issues. It covers topics such as landlord responsibilities, shared-use agreements among roommates, data protection, bandwidth allocation and simple measures against disruptions. Practical templates for conversations, formal letters to building management and pointers to competent courts and laws help resolve problems constructively. The language is clear and aimed at tenants without legal expertise. At the end you will find a checklist and concrete steps to prepare discussions with neighbors or building management.

What does this regulate for tenants?

The basic duties and rights in rental relationships are regulated in the Civil Code (BGB), in particular regarding defects and the landlord's maintenance obligations (§§ 535–536 BGB). If the internet access is part of the equipment or the operating cost statement, this affects your claims to contract-appropriate use of the rented property and possibly rent reduction.^[1]

Practical steps for tenants

• Document disruptions with date, time and evidence (photos, screenshots, connection tests).
• Create a written usage agreement for roommates or the dorm (form/contract with clear rules on access, times and cost allocation).
• Set a reasonable deadline for the landlord to remedy technical defects and describe the issue precisely.
• Request repair for clear technical defects and document all contacts and appointments.
• If no solution occurs, consider legal remedies at the local court; in many cases legal advice beforehand is helpful.

Forms and templates

Use simple template texts for a defect notice or a request to remedy. Important phrasing: describe the problem, set a deadline, threaten legal steps if ignored. Examples and official guidance on laws can be found in the linked sources.^{[1] [2]}

A sample termination letter or form for court procedures can be useful; official forms or guidance can be found at federal authorities and courts.^[4]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reduce rent because of poor Wi‑Fi?

Yes, under certain conditions tenants can reduce rent if contractually guaranteed use is restricted by a technical defect; first check whether the landlord is obliged to remedy it.^[1]

Who pays for the internet connection in the dorm?

It depends on the tenancy agreement: if the connection belongs to an individual tenant, they usually pay; if it is part of communal supply or operating costs, the landlord pays or costs are allocated by agreement.

Can the landlord forbid shared use?

The landlord can set usage rules if there are legitimate reasons (e.g. contract clauses, disruptions, legal limits); unclear cases are often resolved by a written agreement.

Where do I turn in case of an eviction suit?

Eviction suits and tenancy claims are heard in the first instance at the competent local court; legal advice is often advisable beforehand.^[3]

How-To

1. Document disruptions thoroughly (date, time, evidence) and save all communications.
2. Send a formal defect notice to the landlord describing the issue and setting a deadline.
3. Wait the set deadline and send a reminder in writing if there is no response.
4. If necessary, prepare legal action or an inquiry at the local court using your documentation.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• [4] Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
4. [4] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)