Tenants: Hobby Noise and Quiet Hours in Germany

What is hobby noise?

Hobby noise arises from private activities such as playing instruments DIY or exercise equipment. Not all noise is prohibited: decisive factors are volume duration regularity and time of day. In apartment buildings moderate noises are often acceptable during daytime; loud or recurring disturbances can nevertheless impair living quality.

Tenants rights and obligations

The lease and the German Civil Code (BGB) regulate duties of landlords and tenants such as maintenance of the rental property and reasonable use.^[1] Tenants must show consideration landlords must ensure peace and habitability. For persistent disturbances tenants can inform the landlord or examine claims for compensation.

For legal action the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; for higher dispute values the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice handle appeals.^[2]

Concrete steps for recurring noise

• Make photos videos and a noise log noting duration volume and specific disturbances.
• Speak to the neighbor in person or by phone and seek an amicable solution.
• Send a formal defect notice by registered mail and set a reasonable deadline for remedy.
• Consider rent reduction for impaired usability and document the persistence and extent of the disturbance.

How-To

1. Document: Keep a noise log take photos and short videos as evidence.
2. Address: Try to talk to the person causing the noise before taking formal steps.
3. Formalize: Send a written defect notice by registered mail and set a clear deadline.
4. Legal action: If there is no improvement you may file a claim at the local court; seek legal advice first.

FAQ

When does quiet hours apply?

Quiet hours are commonly between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. but may be specified by house rules or local regulations; check your lease and local rules.^[1]

Can the neighbor play musical instruments?

Moderate music is permitted; repeated significant disturbances may justify restrictions and possibly time limitations.

How can I act against recurring noise?

Document the disturbance attempt conversation send a written defect notice and consider legal action at the local court if necessary.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Good documentation increases your chances when filing complaints.
• Talking with the neighbor resolves many issues without court involvement.
• Formal notices and deadlines matter before proceeding legally.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 and following – Gesetze im Internet
• Information on courts and jurisdictions – Justizportal
• Federal Court of Justice – decisions and information

1. [1] BGB §535 – Content of the lease and obligations
2. [2] Justizportal – information on local courts and competence
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice – case law in tenancy matters