Lease Checklist for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany sign leases without checking all clauses or consequences. This guide explains in practical terms which BGH rulings matter, which deadlines and forms you need to know, and how to avoid common pitfalls before signing. Concrete checklist items help you spot rent and utility cost traps, unclear termination periods, or invalid contract clauses. I explain in plain language when you can claim a rent reduction, how to respond to modernization notices, and which courts or authorities have jurisdiction in disputes. At the end you will find practical steps, official forms and contacts for local courts for quick assistance. Use the checklist to negotiate confidently and keep all documents safe, including the handover protocol and rent increase notices.

What to check before signing

Before signing, check methodically to avoid later problems.

• Rent and deposit: Clarify amount, due dates and repayment terms.
• Service charges: Which costs are allocable and how often are they billed?
• Termination periods: Note ordinary and extraordinary deadlines.
• Repair responsibilities: Who bears costs for damage or cosmetic repairs?
• Modernization notices: Check notice periods and possible rent increases.
• Handover protocol: Document condition, take photos and get signatures.

Important BGH rulings

The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) often clarifies which clauses are permissible and how deadlines are interpreted; specific decisions can directly affect your signature. Read current principles and check whether clauses like step rent, cosmetic repairs, or standard form leases have been judicially reviewed (BGH)^[3].

Forms & procedure

Key legal bases and form requirements are regulated in the BGB and the ZPO. Terminations of tenancy agreements must be in writing according to § 568 BGB (§568 BGB)^[1]. For court actions the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is relevant; claims are often filed at the local court (ZPO)^[2].

Termination letter

Form name: "Termination letter (written, handwritten signature)". When: To end the tenancy by tenant or landlord. Example: You plan to move out in three months; send a signed termination letter by registered mail with a clear end date. Observe the deadline and address it clearly.

Filing a claim / complaint

Form name: "Complaint / court claim" (no uniform federal form, filing at the competent local court). When: If landlord and tenant cannot agree, e.g., over unpaid utility costs or withheld deposits. Example: Gather the handover protocol, payment receipts and correspondence, and file the claim at the local court.

Rights for defects & repairs

For significant defects you may be entitled to a rent reduction under certain conditions or to have repairs carried out. Report defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remediation. Documentation with photos and dates is crucial.

FAQ

Can the landlord enforce a rent increase?

A rent increase is only allowed under specific conditions, for example after modernization or within legal limits; check the justification and deadlines.

How do I write a valid termination?

The termination must be in writing and personally signed; state the end date clearly and observe statutory notice periods.

When can I reduce the rent?

For substantial defects that impair usability, you may reduce the rent; document defects and notify the landlord in writing.

How-To

1. Check the contract: Read every clause carefully and mark unclear points.
2. Gather documents: Collect handover protocol, emails, payment records and photos.
3. Observe deadlines: Send written notices or terminations within the time limits.
4. If in dispute, prepare a claim: File documents at the competent local court.

Key takeaways

• Prüfen Sie Vertragsklauseln sorgfältig und dokumentieren Sie alles.
• Sammeln Sie Übergabeprotokoll, Belege und Fotos für den Streitfall.
• Nutzen Sie offizielle Stellen und Gerichte für rechtliche Klärung.

Help & Support / Resources

• §535–580a BGB – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)

1. [1] §535–580a BGB — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — bundesgerichtshof.de