Meter Readings for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the problem of reliably recording meter readings outside regular office hours, such as on weekends. This text explains in clear language how you as a tenant can safely read meter readings, document them with photos and timestamps, and observe deadlines vis‑à‑vis the landlord. You will learn which official forms or evidence are useful, how to send a formal written request correctly and when it is necessary to involve the local court. Concrete action steps help avoid later disputes over operating costs or billing. The aim is to give you practical tools so that you can enforce your rights as a tenant in Germany even on weekends.

What counts as a meter reading?

Meter readings are the numerical values on meters for electricity, water or heating. As a tenant you can read and document meter readings; landlords are obliged to make bills comprehensible (BGB §§535–580a)^[1].

• Electricity meter: photograph the meter number and the reading.
• Water meter: take a photo and make a consumption note.
• Heating costs: for heat meters, additionally keep a reading protocol.

Practical steps on weekends

Here is how to proceed if you need to determine meter readings outside office hours:

• Take a photo of the meter showing date and time.
• Note the meter number, reading and your name by hand as a supplementary record.
• Send the recordings by e‑mail to the landlord and request a read receipt.
• If the landlord disputes the reading, request a written reading and set a deadline; document delivery.
• Collect all receipts for the operating cost statement and check the bill carefully later.

Forms and templates

For many steps there are no central mandatory forms, but some official forms are relevant:

• Civil complaint form (claim): Used when claims must be asserted in court; example: you seek recognition of your meter readings before the local court.
• Application for issuance of a payment order: Useful for outstanding monetary claims from operating costs; the form is available from the responsible payment order court.
• Written request / template letter: Not a statutory form, but important as proof for setting deadlines and documentation. State date, exact claim and deadline.

FAQ

Can I, as a tenant, read meter readings on weekends?

Yes. As a tenant you may read and document meter readings; important evidence are photos, notes and timely notification of the landlord.

What should I do if the landlord disputes the reading?

Document everything, send a formal request and consider court action at the local court if necessary.^[3]

Do meter readings affect the operating cost statement?

Yes. Correct meter readings are the basis for consumption statements; heating costs are subject to the Heating Costs Ordinance.^[2]

How-To

1. Prepare a smartphone or camera and check the date/time.
2. Photograph the meter number and display from close range.
3. Write a short note with meter reading, date and your name.
4. Send the images and note to the landlord; request a read receipt.
5. Keep a copy of all documents in a safe place.
6. If an agreement fails, prepare documents for the local court and use official forms as needed.^[3]

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [3] Information on courts — Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Information on courts — Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)