Mediation for Tenants in Germany: WGs & Families
As a tenant in Germany, conflicts with your landlord about rent increases, repairs or termination can become stressful. Mediation offers a confidential, out-of-court way to resolve issues constructively and meet deadlines — for shared flats (WGs) or families who need quick solutions. This guide explains when mediation makes sense, what steps tenants and landlords should take, which local courts and laws matter, and which official forms are relevant. We show practical steps to start mediation, what documentation is important, and when a lawsuit at the local court or an appeal at the regional court might become necessary. At the end you will find an FAQ, a step-by-step preparation guide for mediation and official links to the BGB, the ZPO and local courts so you can act informed as a tenant in Germany.
When is mediation useful?
Mediation is especially useful when both parties want to continue the tenancy and need fast, flexible solutions, for example with no heating, mold, noise or disputes about rent reductions. Mediation can save time and costs compared to a lawsuit; however it does not always replace court action, e.g. with serious cases of immediate terminations. Before legal steps, deadlines must often be observed and formal letters should be checked[1][2] and the local court is the competent instance for many tenancy disputes[3].
Benefits for tenants
- Preservation of the tenancy through amicable solutions instead of escalation.
- Targeted documentation of receipts, photos and protocols supports negotiation.
- Faster agreements on repairs and restoration of habitability.
Preparing for mediation
Before mediation, prepare a clear list of issues, dates, evidence and desired solutions. Name realistic deadlines and collect evidence such as emails, photos or invoices. Consider which compromises are acceptable and whether witnesses or experts may be necessary.
- Collect photos, repair invoices and damage lists as evidence.
- Prepare correspondence and termination letters for review.
- Note deadlines, e.g. deadlines for remedying defects or response times.
FAQ
- What does mediation cost for tenants?
- Costs vary; often tenants and landlords share the mediator's fees. Some tenant associations or advisory centers offer low-cost assistance.
- Can I preserve my rights under the BGB during mediation?
- Yes. Mediation does not affect your statutory rights under the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) and can be used additionally[1].
- When is going to court necessary?
- Going to court is advisable if the landlord is unwilling to negotiate, deadlines are not met, or if there are immediate terminations and eviction claims; then the local court is usually the first instance[3].
How-To
- Make contact: find a certified mediator or advisory center and arrange an appointment.
- Appointment & formalities: agree on participation, cost sharing and sign the mediation agreement.
- Provide documents: gather evidence, photos and written claims for presentation.
- Set deadlines: agree realistic deadlines for implementing solutions and record them in writing.
- If necessary, next step: if mediation fails, consider court options at the local court or seek legal advice.
