Tenants: Secure Internet in German Shared Housing

As a tenant in Germany, the question of who installs or modernizes internet in shared housing can quickly lead to uncertainty and conflict. This article clearly explains your rights as a tenant and the landlord's duties regarding installation, cost sharing and structural changes. You will learn practical steps — from documenting technical faults to formal letters and resolving matters at the local court — and which deadlines to observe. The guidance cites official legal sources and model forms, shows how to secure communication in writing, and outlines negotiation paths so you can obtain reliable internet in shared housing in Germany without unnecessarily risking your rights or the rental agreement.

Rights and duties for internet in shared housing

In principle, the tenancy rules of the German Civil Code (BGB) apply: the landlord must maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for contractual use; technical infrastructure can be part of that obligation if it is agreed as part of the equipment.^[1] If internet is essential for apartment use (e.g., home office, studies), outages or a missing connection can impair usability and may entitle you to reduce rent.

When can the landlord demand changes?

Structural changes or fixed cabling in shared housing generally require consent; announcements and approvals should be in writing. Smaller, reversible installations often do not need consent, whereas larger interventions do. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; courtroom procedures follow the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO).^[2]

Practical steps for tenants

• Document faults and outages with date, time and photos or screenshots.
• Set a reasonable deadline for repair in a written notice.
• Contact the landlord and property manager in writing and by e‑mail and request a statement.
• If necessary, hire a qualified technician and keep invoices as proof.

FAQ

Can the landlord require an internet connection?

The landlord can agree on a connection in specific cases but cannot unilaterally impose chargeable measures without the tenant's consent.

Who pays for the line or modernization?

That depends on the agreement and the type of measure; costs are often negotiated or regulated through modernization notices.

What can I do if the connection fails permanently?

Document, inform the landlord in due time, possibly claim rent reduction or consider filing suit at the local court.

How-To

1. Step 1: Document the problem thoroughly with date, time and evidence.
2. Step 2: Inform the landlord and property manager in writing and request a deadline for repair.
3. Step 3: If necessary, obtain a technical assessment and present it to the landlord.
4. Step 4: Set a reasonable grace period and announce legal steps if the problem persists.
5. Step 5: If needed, file a lawsuit at the competent local court; observe ZPO deadlines and evidentiary duties.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
• BMJ: sample letters and forms

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] BMJ: Musterbriefe und Formulare