Tenant Guide: Managing Shared Kitchens in Germany

As a tenant in a shared flat in Germany you need clear rules for the communal kitchen so daily life, hygiene and costs are fairly distributed. This practical guide explains rights and duties in plain language, simple cleaning rosters, rules for shared supplies, how to handle needed repairs and how to resolve conflicts without a lawyer. I give examples for written agreements, verifiable documentation and tactical steps for repeated disturbances. The guidance follows German tenancy law and official practice^[3], so you know when to complain, how to set deadlines and which courts are competent. The goal is that flat-share tenants gain practical security, less conflict and clear responsibilities.

Rights and Duties in Shared Kitchens

Landlords are obliged under the BGB to maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for use and to remedy defects^[1]. In shared flats this includes communal rooms like the kitchen: pipes, heating and basic hygiene must be functional. Clear agreements within the flat do not replace the landlord's legal duties but help to avoid conflicts.

Practical Rules and Templates

Practical rules help distribute responsibility and costs. Suggestions:

• Cleaning roster: weekly rotation, alternating responsible person and recorded dates.
• Shared fund: simple accounting for common products like dish detergent.
• Repair rules: the flat covers minor fixes, larger damages are reported in writing to the landlord.

What to Do for Damage and Repairs

If a defect occurs, document photos, dates and affected areas. Report the damage to the landlord in writing immediately and request a deadline for repair; keep copies of all communication. Special rules and possible rent reductions under the BGB apply for heating failure or water damage^[1]. Disputes are usually handled by the local courts (Amtsgericht)^[2].

Frequently Asked Questions

Who cleans if no one cooperates?

If there is no agreement, tenants cannot unilaterally demand extra payments; a written flat-share agreement provides clarity.

Can the landlord enter the shared kitchen?

The landlord may enter only after prior notice and with legitimate interest; unannounced entry is allowed only in emergencies^[2].

When is a rent reduction possible?

For substantial defects like heating failure or water damage a rent reduction may be possible; check the requirements in the BGB and document the defect^[1].

How-To

1. Document defects: photos, date, witnesses and a short description.
2. Send a written report to the landlord by e-mail or letter with a deadline.
3. If there is no response: send a reminder and announce a possible rent reduction.
4. For ongoing disputes: involve the local court or seek advice from competent authorities.

Help and Support / Resources

• § 535 BGB – Rights and duties of the landlord
• Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (forms and information)

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Information on courts and jurisdictions – Justice Portal
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms and templates