Tenant Communication: Music & Hobbies in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, loud music or active hobbies can quickly lead to tension with neighbors or the landlord. This practical guide explains how to communicate expectations clearly, which rights and duties apply under tenancy law, and how to de-escalate conflicts. We cover when noise is permitted, the rules for house rules and quiet hours, how to document defects or complaints, and which deadlines for responses are important. We also show how official bodies such as the local court (Amtsgericht) or the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) may rule in disputes and which documents are useful. The goal is to give you simple, legally sound steps so you can act professionally as a tenant.

Rights and Duties

Landlords must maintain the rental property in a condition suitable for the contract; tenants must be considerate and pay the rent. The relevant rules are in the BGB, especially §§535–580a.^[1] In court disputes, the procedural rules of the ZPO apply.^[2]

Practical Steps to Clarify Music and Hobbies

• Talk to neighbors early about times and volume.
• Use headphones or quieter equipment during quiet hours.
• Document repeated noise disturbances with date, time and photos.
• Propose written rules or compromises and record any agreements.
• Contact the landlord if conversations with the neighbor do not lead to improvement.

If Conversations Are Not Enough

If direct talks and written agreements do not resolve the issue, you can take formal action. The initiation of eviction proceedings or other lawsuits follows procedures under the ZPO and is handled by the local courts.^[2] Decisions by the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) often provide guidance on fundamental legal questions.^[3]

Forms and Templates

Important documents for tenants:

• Termination letter (own letter, check §573 BGB) — there is no standardized federal form.
• Defect notice / rent reduction: describe the defect, set a deadline and state the desired remedy in writing.
• Filing a lawsuit at the local court: format and jurisdiction depend on the ZPO and local court practice.^[2]

FAQ

When can I play music in my apartment?

Music is permitted as long as it does not significantly disturb quiet hours; exact limits depend on the house rules and local case law.

Can the landlord forbid hobbies?

A general ban on hobbies is rare; restrictions are possible if a hobby causes significant disadvantages to others.

What helps with repeated noise from neighbors?

Documentation, complaint to the landlord, and if necessary involving the local court or a mediation service.

How-To

1. Check the lease and house rules for clear regulations on quiet hours and the use of rooms.
2. Keep a noise log with date, time and description.
3. Seek a conversation with the neighbor and offer compromises.
4. Set a written deadline for remedy and inform the landlord.
5. If necessary, file a lawsuit at the local court or use a mediation service.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) Entscheidungen — bundesgerichtshof.de