Tenants: Emergency Internet Outage Claims in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, a prolonged internet outage can quickly cause significant disadvantages, especially if home office, studies or medical devices are affected. In urgent cases there is an emergency procedure (Eilverfahren) before the local court that allows you to assert claims for restoration, rent reduction or damages at short notice. This article explains clearly which documents, deadlines and official forms you need, how to secure evidence and which authorities or courts are responsible. I show practical steps from collecting invoices and outage reports to filing an interim injunction so that you can enforce your rights effectively in Germany. I list concrete forms and authorities with links.
Which documents do you need?
Collect all documents that record the outage, its effects and your attempts to fix it. Important evidence helps in court or for a quick preliminary injunction.
- Provider outage reports (notice) – written or electronic reports with date and time.
- Contract and terms (document) – copy of the rental contract and the internet contract, including tariff details.
- Invoices and payments (payment) – proof of paid fees and any additional payments.
- Repair logs (repair) – reports of technician visits, appointments and results.
- Photos and screenshots (document) – error messages, speed tests with date and time.
- Communication with landlord/provider (deadline) – emails or letters with set deadlines.
Deadlines in the emergency procedure
In an emergency procedure, speed is crucial: formal deadlines and prompt evidence preservation are decisive. In many cases your complaint or application for an interim injunction should be filed without unnecessary delay. The general rules of the Civil Code and the Code of Civil Procedure apply to tenancy claims and procedure rules.[1][2]
- Act immediately (within) – notify the provider immediately and document the response.
- Set reasonable deadlines (calendar) – e.g. 7–14 days to fix, depending on the impact on your use.
- If no help arrives, file an application (form) – file an application at the local court or consider an interim injunction.
How to secure evidence
Good evidence increases the chances of success in an emergency procedure. Document cause and consequences of the outage as completely as possible.
- Screenshots and speed tests (document) – save time-stamped results.
- Outage reports to provider (notice) – preferably by email or customer portal so there is proof.
- Technician reports (repair) – get written visit reports or ask for service records.
- Proof of financial consequences (payment) – lost work days or extra costs documented.
Court steps and jurisdiction
Tenancy disputes, including emergency procedures for missing internet service, are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht). The local court at the location of the rental property is responsible; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht), and significant legal questions can reach the Federal Court of Justice.[2]
The legal basis can be found in the Civil Code (BGB, §§ 535–580a) and procedural rules in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO). For questions about form and deadline, a brief legal consultation or consumer advice is often helpful.
FAQ
- Can I claim a rent reduction because of an internet outage?
- Yes, if the use of the rented property is significantly impaired, a rent reduction may be possible; the amount depends on the individual case.
- How quickly must I sue?
- Act immediately after failed self-help; in emergency procedures every week, often every day, matters.
- Who is responsible: landlord or provider?
- Initially often the provider; however the landlord must ensure contractual supply if it is part of the rental agreement.
How-To
- Document the outage immediately with screenshots, logs and speed tests.
- Report the outage in writing to the provider and set a deadline (form).
- Collect all invoices and evidence of damages or extra costs.
- Check with legal advice whether an interim injunction is sensible.
- If necessary, file the application at the competent local court.
