Tenant Advice Online in Germany: Common Myths

What Tenants Need to Know

Online advice can quickly help tenants in Germany, but misunderstandings often arise about responsibilities, deadlines and required documents. Tenancy law (BGB) governs landlord and tenant obligations and rights; pay attention to relevant sections for maintenance, termination and rent reduction.^[1] If court action becomes necessary, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply to lawsuits and deadlines.^[2] This page explains which documents you should have ready online, which misconceptions are common and when to consider local courts or the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

Online Advice: Common Myths

• Without a lawyer nothing works (help) — free advice from tenant associations or advisory centers is often sufficient.
• An incomplete form is enough (form) — many cases fail due to missing information.
• Deadlines are flexible (deadline) — always respond within stated deadlines or you may lose rights.
• Only courts always decide immediately (court) — many cases are resolved by clarifying with the landlord or an advisory service.

Which Documents for Online Advice?

• Tenancy agreement and amendments (document) — copies of all pages including annexes and modifications.
• Correspondence with the landlord (evidence) — emails, letters and notes of conversations.
• Photos and expert reports of defects (repair) — date, time and affected rooms.
• Payment proofs: bank statements, receipts, statements (rent) — for deposit, rent and service charges.
• If available: summons, notices or court forms (form) — scan all received papers.

If Legal Action Looms

Many tenancy disputes are heard in the local court (Amtsgericht); the local court is the first instance for most tenancy law disputes. For complex evidence or higher claims, a regional court (Landgericht) may be competent, and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decides on fundamental legal questions.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents: tenancy agreement, correspondence, payment proofs and photos (document).
2. Describe the problem briefly and structured in the cover letter or form (form).
3. Mention dates and meet deadlines; send evidence within the required time (deadline).
4. Use free tenant advice services or municipal offices before booking paid legal advice (help).

FAQ

Can I submit all documents online?

Yes, many advisory services accept digital documents. Pay attention to the required file formats and include complete page numbers.

Do I need an expert opinion immediately for a rent reduction?

Not always. Photos, written defect notices to the landlord and proof of rent payments often suffice for initial advice.

How do I find the competent court?

The local court (Amtsgericht) at the place of residence is usually competent for tenancy matters; for higher values, the regional court (Landgericht) may be competent.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Laws Online (BGB & ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB), tenancy provisions, §535 ff. — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de