Tenant Advice Online for Shared Flats in Germany

Many tenants in Germany live in shared flats (WGs) and look specifically for online advice when tenancy issues arise. This guide explains in practical terms how flatmates can assert their rights under tenancy law, from reporting defects and rent reduction to service charge disputes and termination. We show which official forms and deadlines are important, how to document evidence and when consulting tenant associations or advisory centers is advisable. We also describe which types of evidence are helpful, how to calculate deadlines and which authorities are responsible. Examples show wording for defect notifications and a sample for handing over termination notices.

Rights and first steps

As a tenant you have claims under the German Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding the landlord's duties, defect remediation and rent reduction.^[1] First check the tenancy agreement, document the apartment's condition and inform your flatmates about the next steps.

What to do about defects?

For housing problems (e.g. mold, heating failure, burst pipe) a written defect notification is the most important measure. Describe the defect, date, impact and set a reasonable deadline for remediation.

• Describe the defect clearly and dated.
• Attach photos, dates and witness names if applicable.
• Set a deadline (e.g. 14 days) for remediation.
• Keep copies of all letters and responses.

Rent reduction and termination

If the landlord does not fix defects within the deadline, rent reduction may be considered; the requirements are governed by the BGB. In disputes the local court often decides; court proceedings follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2][3]

Documentation & forms

Important official forms and procedures can help: examples include the application for legal aid (Prozesskostenhilfe, PKH) or the application for legal advice assistance, if you need financial support for legal help. Use written defect notifications as templates and document deadlines and landlord responses.

• Application for legal aid (PKH): provides financial support for court proceedings when you cannot afford the costs; example: applying for PKH to contest an eviction suit.
• Application for legal advice assistance: enables low-cost initial legal advice at a lawyer or advisory center; example: short phone consultation before filing a lawsuit.
• Defect notification (written): not an official form, but in practice a short letter with date, description, deadline and photos is used.

FAQ

How do I report defects in the shared flat?

Create a written defect notification with date, description, photos and a deadline and inform all flatmates.

When can I reduce the rent?

Rent reduction may apply if usability is substantially impaired; document the extent and duration of the defect.

Who do I contact for an eviction suit?

Eviction suits are heard at the local court; contact an advisory center early or check PKH/ legal advice assistance.

How-To

1. Describe and document the defect with date and photo.
2. Send a written defect notification to the landlord and set a deadline.
3. Collect responses, receipts and, if applicable, witness statements.
4. Consider rent reduction or contact an advisory center or tenant association.
5. If court action is required: check PKH/ legal advice assistance and prepare files for the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Justice Portal Germany (Courts)

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] ZPO — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Jurisdiction of local courts — justiz.de