Meter Readings for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, correct meter readings are important for service charges and avoidable back-payments. This article explains in practical terms how tenants should read meters on moving in, moving out and during the tenancy, how to document readings and report them within deadlines. You will learn which forms and evidence are useful, how handover protocols work and when it makes sense to object to a statement. Concrete tips help avoid common mistakes in 2025 — from missing photo documentation to late notifications to the landlord or energy provider. At the end you will find steps for securing evidence and information about competent authorities and courts in Germany.

Meter Readings: What Tenants Need to Know

Meter readings form the basis for heating and service charge statements. Tenants should document regular readings and notify in writing when the lease or the energy provider requires a report. Legal foundations can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) regarding landlord and tenant obligations for service charges and in the Heating Costs Ordinance.^[1][2]

Practical Steps

1. Note the date and time of the reading so deadlines and comparison values are clear.
2. Take at least one photo of the meter reading as evidence, including the meter number.
3. Record the meter reading legibly in a protocol and keep copies.
4. Send the reading notification or form to the landlord and grid operator and request an acknowledgement of receipt.
5. On move-in and move-out: create a handover protocol with meter readings and have it signed.
6. In case of disagreement, document everything chronologically; where necessary you can seek clarification at the local court.^[3]

It is important to meet deadlines: reports, objections or inquiries should be made in writing and verifiably. Missing deadlines can limit your options. Use simple wording, dates and your contact details in every communication.

Forms and Templates

There is no nationwide mandatory form for meter readings, but common templates include: a reading form for the landlord, a handover protocol for move-in or move-out, and sample letters for disputes or claims. Example: an "reading notification" with fields for date, time, meter number, meter reading, photo reference and recipient; send this by e-mail with photo attachments or by registered mail. For general tenancy templates (e.g. termination letters) templates are published by the Federal Ministry of Justice and useful when it comes to deadlines and evidence.^[1]

Frequently Asked Questions

Who must report the meter reading?

Generally, the tenant reports the reading to the landlord or the responsible metering operator if the contract or the supplier requires it.

What if the meter is unreadable?

Photograph the meter display and inform the landlord or operator in writing; request a reading by the metering operator.

Can I object to a back-payment?

Yes. File an objection within the deadline, justify it and attach your evidence; keep copies.

How-To

1. Schedule regular reading dates (e.g. monthly or at contract changes) to have comparison values.
2. Take a photo at each reading and save the date and time.
3. Send the reading notification to landlord and grid operator and request an acknowledgement of receipt.
4. If the landlord presents an annual statement, compare the values with your records and report deviations within the objection period.
5. If necessary, submit documentation to the local court or obtain legal advice.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§ 535–580a
• Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official Website

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Heizkostenverordnung (HeizKV) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Official Website