Tenant Checklist: Heating Failure in Germany
Immediate measures
When the heating fails, act in a structured way: report the defect in writing, document temperature and duration and collect evidence for later steps.
What to document
- Record date, time and duration of the outage
- Take photos of thermostats, radiators and measuring devices
- Collect craftsmen's reports, invoices and heating bills
Keep all receipts and photos neatly organized.
Legal basis
Key bases are the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a [1], the competence of local courts (Amtsgerichte) for tenancy law [2] and the Heating Costs Ordinance [3]. For guidance and higher-court decisions, refer to judgments of the Federal Court of Justice [4].
Respond in writing and within deadlines, otherwise claims may be endangered.
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?
- Yes, under certain conditions tenants in Germany can reduce the rent if the usability of the apartment is impaired. The scope of the defect, duration and evidence are decisive.
- What deadlines do I have to observe?
- Inform the landlord immediately in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair. For acute outages you should look for emergency services or craftsmen immediately; legal action follows only after documentation.
- What evidence is acceptable in court?
- Photos, temperature logs, written defect notices, craftsmen's reports and invoices are suitable evidence for a rent reduction or lawsuit.
How-To
- Record date, time and room temperature
- Safely store photos and measurement logs
- Notify the landlord in writing by email or registered mail
Detailed evidence increases the chances of success in court.
- Document craftsmen appointments and keep invoices
- Check and, if necessary, announce rent reduction
- Consider filing a claim at the local court if the dispute continues
