Legionella Testing 2025: Tenant Duties in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you should know which documents are important for legionella testing in 2025, which deadlines apply and what rights you have in case of health-related defects. This page explains clearly how to request test reports, which proofs landlords must provide and who to contact if tests are missing or results exceed limits. The guidance considers both landlord obligations under the Drinking Water Ordinance and practical steps tenants can take to reduce contamination risks and keep their living space safe.

What tenants need to know

Landlords are required to carry out regular legionella tests and to document the results. Request the test report and the test protocol so you know whether values were exceeded. If the limit is exceeded, the landlord must take measures and inform tenants.^[1]

• Labor test report with measurements and date
• Written confirmation from the landlord on measures taken
• Protocols on maintenance and flushing measures
• Notifications to tenants and the public health office

Deadlines and reporting duties

Testing deadlines and reporting duties arise from the Drinking Water Ordinance; landlords must meet deadlines and report anomalies promptly. As a tenant, note deadlines and request written responses from the landlord to protect your rights.^[1]

• Deadlines for laboratory testing: to be observed by the landlord
• Notification in case of exceedance of limit values
• Deadline for the landlord to implement countermeasures

Your tenancy claims (e.g. rent reduction or damages) are governed by the provisions of the BGB; document defects and, if necessary, involve the local court if a dispute arises.^[2][3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Is my landlord required to carry out a legionella test?

Yes. Landlords are obliged under the Drinking Water Ordinance to carry out regular tests and to document the results.^[1]

What deadlines apply for testing and reporting?

Deadlines are set out in the Drinking Water Ordinance; if limit values are exceeded, the landlord must act quickly and inform tenants.

Can I reduce the rent if legionella is found in the water?

In case of significant impairments to usability or health hazards, a rent reduction may be possible; document defects and consider legal advice.^[2]

How-To

1. Request the current test report and protocol from the landlord in writing.
2. Document all replies, appointments and actions with date and time.
3. Contact the responsible public health office if the landlord does not respond or measures are missing.
4. Consider written defect notices and legal action (e.g. via the local court) if risks persist.

Help and Support / Resources

• Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV) — legal regulation
• German Civil Code (BGB) — tenancy law §§ 535–580a
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — information on tenancy law and case law

1. [1] Drinking Water Ordinance (TrinkwV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] German Civil Code (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de