Tenant Guide for Student Housing in Germany
As a tenant in student housing in Germany, you should know which documents are important, which deadlines apply and how to enforce your tenant rights. Many disputes can be avoided if the lease, house rules, handover protocol and proof of deposit are kept in order. In case of defects, terminations or utility bill disputes, deadlines and formal notifications are crucial. This guide explains in practical terms which official forms you should know, which deadlines are important in tenancy law and which courts are responsible for disputes. The language is clear and aimed at students and tenants without legal background so you can act more confidently and file the right application on time. Read on for concrete checklists and template forms.
Which documents do tenants need in student housing?
Before moving in, check and store these documents digitally and on paper. They help assert rights and substantiate claims.
- Lease agreement: Includes duration, rent amount, service charge rules and termination periods.
- House rules: Rules for shared spaces, quiet hours and conduct in the residence.
- Proof of deposit: Bank statement or receipt for payment of the security deposit.
- Handover protocol (move-in and move-out): Serves as proof of condition at handover.
- Insurance proofs: Liability insurance can be important for damages.
- Correspondence and photos: Email communications, defect photos, appointments and invoices.
Deadlines and important dates
Pay close attention to termination periods, deadlines for reporting defects and time limits for deposit claims.
- Termination periods: Check the periods stipulated in the lease and the statutory requirements.
- Defect notification: Report damage immediately in writing with a deadline for repair.
- Utility bill review: Check accounting within typical deadlines and object if necessary.
Forms and templates
You should know these official or practical templates: termination letter (Ministry of Justice sample), formal defect notification and handover protocol. For formal declarations use clear dates, signature and proof of delivery.
- Termination letter (sample): Wording, address details and proof of receipt are crucial.[3]
- Written defect notification: Describe defect, date, desired repair deadline and request confirmation.
- Handover protocol: Record meter readings, damages and missing equipment on move-in and move-out.
If a dispute arises: courts and procedures
Tenancy disputes are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht); appeals go to the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice. Procedural rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply.[2]
- Local court (Amtsgericht): First instance for many civil disputes, including tenancy matters.
- Regional court / Federal Court: Responsible for appeals and fundamental legal questions.
- Conciliation bodies: Some federal states offer pre-court conciliation services.
FAQ
- What is the notice period for terminating my room in student housing?
- The notice period depends on your lease; statutory provisions in the BGB may also apply. Check your contract and written agreements.
- How do I report a defect correctly?
- Send a written defect notice with a concrete description, date, deadline for remedy and request confirmation of receipt.
- When can I claim rent reduction?
- For significant impairments to usability (e.g. heating failure) a rent reduction may be possible; document defect and duration carefully.
How-To
- Document: Take photos, note time and date, and collect evidence.
- Send written defect notice: Send a signed letter by registered mail or an email with read receipt.
- Consider conciliation: Check local conciliation services before filing a lawsuit.
- Court action: File a claim at the competent local court if out-of-court solutions fail.
Help & Support / Resources
- Gesetze im Internet (BGB & ZPO)
- Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – information and templates
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions
