Making Music as a Tenant in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you are often between the desire to play an instrument and the duty to respect neighbors. This section explains in plain terms which rights and duties apply, how house rules are interpreted, and which steps help to resolve conflicts without immediate escalation. You will learn when noise is permitted, how to document issues, and which deadlines to observe. The goal is to find a fair solution that allows your leisure activities while preserving neighborhood peace.

Rights and Duties as a Tenant

Landlords and tenants have rights and duties regulated in the BGB. In case of noise disturbances: tolerable use is permitted, unreasonable nuisance is not. Inform yourself about your rights under the BGB and typical court rulings before considering formal steps.^[1]

Practical Steps for Noise from Music

Proceed step by step: communication first, documentation in parallel, formal measures only for persistent conflict.

• First speak politely and informally with the neighbor about times and volume.
• Keep a noise log: date, time, duration and type of noise as evidence.
• If necessary, send a written request to be considerate and set a clear deadline.
• Observe deadlines – respond to replies or forms within stated timeframes.
• If no solution is possible, consider legal action before the local court (Amtsgericht).

When Does the House Rule Help?

The house rules often regulate quiet hours and use of shared spaces. They are part of the tenancy if validly agreed. Check your house rules and compare common quiet hours with practical needs.

Formal Notices and Templates

For persistent disturbances, formal letters are sensible: a written request, a defect notice, or in extreme cases termination for lack of consideration. Use official templates and guidance from the federal ministry when considering terminations or lawsuits.^[3]

Conflict Prevention: Practical Tips

• Agree fixed practice times and communicate them transparently with neighbors.
• Consider technical measures such as sound insulation or using electronic practice tools instead of loud volume.
• Check alternative practice locations (rehearsal rooms, music schools).

FAQ

Which quiet hours apply to making music?

Quiet hours are often found in the house rules or local custom; generally evening and nighttime quiet applies, exact times may vary.

Can I reduce rent because of noise?

Rent reduction is possible if the usability is substantially impaired; documentation and legal advice are important.

Where can I turn if talks do not help?

If mediation fails, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; consider mediation or conciliation services first.

How-To

1. Have a personal conversation and propose concrete practice times.
2. Keep a noise log with date, time and duration.
3. Send a written request with a deadline if necessary.
4. Use the local court as a last resort; prepare documentation and evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) – central tenancy rules
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – court procedures
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – guidance and templates

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch §§ 535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Verfahrensregeln (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz – Informationen und Muster (bmjv.de)