Tenant Objection under §574 BGB in Germany

Tenants in Germany often face important deadlines when they receive a notice of termination for personal use or an ordinary termination. The objection under § 574 BGB allows tenants to resist the termination if carrying it out would cause them unreasonable hardship. In this article I explain in practical terms when an objection can succeed, which deadlines apply, how to collect evidence and which courts are responsible. You will receive concrete steps for drafting an objection letter, guidance on possible forms and a list of official contact points in Germany. Read on for sample wordings, an example objection and tips on communicating with the landlord and the local court.

Was ist der Widerspruch nach § 574 BGB?

The objection under § 574 BGB allows tenants to object to an ordinary termination if the hardship resulting from the termination would be unreasonable. It is intended to take into account social protection interests such as illness, age or the care of children.^[1]

Wann liegt ein Härtefall vor?

A hardship case can exist in the event of serious illness, advanced age, pregnancy or if a move would be unreasonable for the family. Courts examine individual aspects such as the duration of the tenancy and possible alternatives.

• Severe illness of a household member that makes moving impossible.
• Care obligations for children or persons in need of care.
• Particularly long period of residence and investments in the apartment.

Fristen und Formalien

There is no specific statutory deadline for the objection in § 574 itself, but act immediately: a prompt written statement and handover to the landlord or lawyer is decisive. In the event of a subsequent eviction claim, deadlines before the local court must be observed.^[2]

• Immediate written response to the landlord.
• Collect medical certificates, rent payments and photos as evidence.
• Submit documents to the competent local court if necessary.

Formulare, Musterschreiben und Behörden

There is no nationwide standard form for the objection under § 574 BGB. You can send an informal letter to the landlord; in court proceedings you should use the forms and guidance of the competent local court. In appeals and precedents the Federal Court of Justice may be relevant.^[3]

Example of a short objection letter:

• Date, Subject: Objection to termination under § 574 BGB, brief description of the hardship and enclosures (medical certificate, proof of payments).
• Request confirmation of receipt and a deadline for the landlord to respond.

FAQ

Kann ich sofort in der Wohnung bleiben, nachdem ich widersprochen habe?

An objection does not automatically prevent an eviction claim, but it strengthens your legal position and can buy time until the court decides.

Welche Beweise sind wichtig?

Medical certificates, proof of rent payments, photos, witnesses and communication with the landlord are particularly helpful.

Muss ich einen Anwalt beauftragen?

No, you can object yourself; however, in complex cases or eviction claims legal assistance is advisable.

Anleitung

1. Check the termination and note the date of receipt.
2. Draft a written objection with reasons and enclosures.
3. Send the letter by registered mail or deliver it against a receipt.
4. Collect all evidence and notify the local court if necessary.
5. If there is a lawsuit: file the complaint/forms with the local court or be represented.

Kernaussagen

• An objection under § 574 BGB can halt terminations in Germany due to hardship.
• Documentation and quick action are crucial for success.

Hilfe und Unterstützung

• § 574 BGB im Gesetzesportal
• Informationen zu Amtsgerichten und Verfahren
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) Entscheidungen

1. [1] § 574 BGB — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zuständigkeit Amtsgericht — Justizportal
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — Entscheidungen