Long-term Serviced Apartments: Tenant Guide Germany

As a tenant in Germany, serviced apartments can be convenient, but long-term agreements require clear rules. This guide explains in plain language which points you should record in the rental contract, how utilities and repairs should be regulated, and which termination deadlines apply. I provide concrete wording, examples for cleaning and maintenance arrangements, and a checklist you can use when signing or renewing. I cite important provisions of the BGB^[1] and briefly explain how a dispute proceeds in the local court so you can exercise your tenant rights in Germany with greater confidence. I list official forms and sample texts, explain deadlines and evidence collection, and give tips on reviewing a utilities statement. At the end you will find an easy-to-use checklist for the key steps before signing or renewing.

What is a long-term serviced apartment?

A serviced apartment combines housing and services (cleaning, furniture, possibly utilities). When such an apartment is used for months or years, tenancy law under the BGB (§§ 535–580a) often applies in practice.^[1] The decisive factor is whether the use corresponds to a classic tenancy or is structured as a time-limited contract with a service component. For tenants, this means many consumer protection rules and termination deadlines from the BGB remain relevant.

What tenants should check

Before signing or renewing a contract, clearly check and record the following points in the contract.

• Deadlines and duration: How long does the contract run and what termination periods apply?
• Rental agreement and additional services: Which services are included and which are charged extra?
• Utilities and deposit: How are costs billed and when is the deposit due?
• Repairs and responsibilities: Who bears repair and regular maintenance costs?
• Records and defect evidence: Secure photos, emails and handover protocols.

Concrete clauses and sample wording

Use clear wording such as "term X months, extension only in writing" or "flat-rate utilities of X euros monthly, accounting annually." Specify service descriptions (e.g. weekly cleaning included) and clarify who is responsible for replacement of appliances or furniture. Name a communication channel for defects (email + deadline) and reserve the right to reduce rent in case of significant defects.

Practical checklist before signing

• Read the agreement completely: Check duration, termination, extensions and special termination rights.
• Check costs: Clarify utilities, flat rates and possible additional fees.
• Create a handover protocol: Document condition, meter readings and existing damage.
• Agree repair procedures: Clarify who reports, who repairs and which deadlines apply.

FAQ

Can a long-term serviced apartment fall under regular tenancy law?

Yes. If the residential use is permanent, many rules from the BGB (§§ 535–580a) apply as in classic tenancy relationships.^[1]

What termination periods apply to tenants?

Tenants can usually terminate with three months' notice unless the contract specifies otherwise; special fixed-term agreements are possible and should be clearly stated in the contract.

Which court handles disputes?

Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the first instance by the competent local court (Amtsgericht); legal issues may proceed to the regional court (Landgericht) and, in specific cases, to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2]

How-To

1. Check the contract: Record duration, termination, included services and payment terms in writing.
2. Document defects: Photos, dates and written defect notification to the landlord.
3. Notify defects in time: Set a deadline and document reminder notices in writing.
4. Coordinate repairs: Clarify who pays and when replacement measures occur.
5. If escalation occurs: Consider legal steps and prepare a claim at the local court.
6. Use the checklist: Collect and securely store all receipts, protocols and correspondence.

Help & Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice - forms and consumer information
• Gesetze im Internet - BGB and relevant provisions
• Federal Court of Justice - decisions and principles

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice - bmj.de