Writing a Tenant Termination in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you should know how to properly draft a standard termination, which notice periods apply and which formal requirements must be observed. This easy-to-follow checklist explains step by step what information must not be missing in the termination letter, how to check deadlines under the BGB and which documents you should collect. You will receive practical phrasing examples, tips for sending by registered mail or hand delivery and advice on communicating with the landlord. The goal is to avoid formal errors and protect your rights so the termination is effective and later disputes are reduced. If you are unsure, see guidance on official template forms and the competent local courts below.
Checklist: Content and Form
The following checklist helps you avoid formal errors and include all important details in the termination letter.
- State the deadline, date and place
- Give full addresses of tenant and landlord
- Clear termination sentence, e.g. "I hereby terminate the tenancy as of [date]"
- Signature of the terminating tenant
- Have receipts, handover protocols and photos ready as evidence
- Check and list statutory and contractual deadlines [1]
Keep receipts and correspondence organized and stored safely.
Use clear language, state the termination date and avoid contradictory formulations. Many tenants use an official template termination letter; authorities such as the Federal Ministry of Justice provide guidance.
Delivery: Send the termination by registered mail or hand it over with a delivery receipt to prove receipt. Note the mailing date and keep postal receipts.
Forms and official steps
Which forms and proofs are important:
- Termination letter (official template or your own wording)
- Handover protocol when returning the flat
- Receipts and correspondence as evidence
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
FAQ
- How long are statutory notice periods for tenants?
- As a tenant you can usually give notice with a statutory period of three months unless the rental contract states otherwise. Check special rules in the BGB.[1]
- Do I have to give a reason for termination?
- For an ordinary termination by the tenant, no reason is generally required. For an extraordinary termination, valid reasons must be stated.
- Where should I send the termination if the landlord is a company?
- Address the termination to the landlord address stated in the rental contract or to the management company’s business address; send it in a verifiable way.
How-To
- Check your contractual and statutory notice periods
- Prepare a clear termination letter with date, addresses and termination sentence
- Sign the letter by hand
- Send it by registered mail or hand it over with a receipt
- Document posting and receipt and keep copies
In most cases a clear, signed letter is sufficient for a valid ordinary termination.
