Long-term Serviced Apartment Renting in Germany

Many tenants in Germany consider a long-term serviced apartment as an alternative to a conventional flat, especially for work-related stays or renovations. This guide explains in plain language what rights and obligations tenants have, how rental agreements, utility charges and notice periods work, and what to watch for with repairs, security deposit and operating costs. I provide concrete examples of how to negotiate terms, document damage and proceed in disputes. The goal is to give applicants and current tenants practical steps so they can live safely and legally informed in Germany. I list important forms, the competent local courts and official sources so you can plan informed steps when rental problems arise.

Rental Agreement and Terms

Check the rental agreement carefully for which services are included in the serviced apartment (e.g. cleaning, internet, utilities). Under the German Civil Code, the landlord has basic maintenance duties; many rules are in §§ 535–580a.^[1] For billing and allocation of operating costs the Operating Costs Ordinance applies.^[4]

• Security deposit: check amount, legal interest and repayment terms and document them.
• Utilities: check which items are charged and request supporting documents.
• Notice periods: note contractual and statutory deadlines.
• Usage rules: be aware of the intended purpose of the flat (e.g. temporary use as a serviced apartment).

Repairs and Reporting Defects

For defects the landlord is obliged to remedy; document defects immediately with date and photos and report them in writing. Refer to your rights under the Civil Code.^[1]

• Photograph defects and note the date.
• Send a written defect notice to the landlord and prove receipt.
• Set a deadline for repair (e.g. 14 days) and plan further steps after the deadline.
• Keep receipts for downtime or extra costs (e.g. hotel costs if the flat is uninhabitable).

Termination, Deadlines and Eviction

For ordinary or extraordinary termination, contractual and statutory rules apply; in disputes the local court is competent. Procedural rules are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2]

• Check termination letters: form, justification and proof of delivery.
• Observe deadlines: prepare a timely response or defense.
• Collect evidence: photos, messages and witnesses.
• Contact legal advice or tenant support organisations if necessary.

Court Procedure and Competence

Rental disputes are usually handled first by the local courts; appeals go to regional courts and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice, whose decisions can set precedent.^[2][3]

FAQ

Can the landlord prohibit the use as a serviced apartment?

It depends on the rental agreement and the agreed use; without explicit permission the landlord can prohibit short-term subletting or commercial use.

When can I reduce the rent?

For significant defects that impair usability, a rent reduction may be justified. Document the defect and the landlord's responses.

Who do I contact for an eviction lawsuit?

Eviction suits are heard by the competent local court; learn about the procedure and prepare deadlines and evidence.

How-To

1. Step 1: Report the defect to the landlord in writing and set a deadline for remedy.
2. Step 2: Collect photos and dates and create a damage log.
3. Step 3: Wait for the deadline; follow up in writing if no repair occurs.
4. Step 4: If necessary, send a registered letter demanding remedy and document receipt.
5. Step 5: Consider a rent reduction for substantial defects and calculate the amount.
6. Step 6: If required, file a claim at the local court or seek legal assistance.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
• Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Bundesgerichtshof
4. [4] Betriebskostenverordnung – Gesetze im Internet
5. [5] Muster-Kündigungsschreiben – Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz