Tenant Rights for Making Music in Germany 2025

Making music in a rented flat is an important part of life for many tenants — from playing the piano to practicing together. In Germany, the tenancy agreement, house rules and the Civil Code (BGB) determine what is permitted and how disputes are resolved. This guide explains in plain language what rights and duties tenants have in 2025 when making music, how to show consideration, limit volume and times, and avoid conflicts with neighbours. You will learn when a rent reduction is possible, the role of warnings and terminations, and how proceedings at the local court work. There are also practical steps for documenting disturbances and pointers to official legal texts and courts in Germany so you can act confidently.

When can tenants make music?

In principle, making music in a rented flat cannot be prohibited across the board as long as it remains within reasonable limits and night-time quiet hours and agreed quiet periods are respected. The house rules and tenancy agreement may contain specific provisions; in case of dispute, the general provisions of the BGB on the right of use and consideration apply^[1]. Persistent, excessive noise can lead to warnings, termination or legal action.

Practical rules and tips

• Agree quiet hours in writing with the landlord or in the house rules.
• Inform neighbours about regular rehearsal times and ask for feedback.
• Use mutes, quieter instruments or rehearsal rooms to reduce noise.
• Keep a noise log with date, time and duration for repeated disturbances.
• Try to talk to resolve disputes before considering legal steps.

When disputes arise

Act promptly: request cessation in writing if loud music impairs your living quality. Repeated or severe disturbances can justify a warning; if behaviour continues, termination or legal steps may follow. In serious cases the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible and proceedings follow the rules of civil procedure (ZPO)^[2]; decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be relevant^[3]. Before suing, consider settlement options and collect evidence (logs, photos, witness statements).

FAQ

Can the landlord ban music making entirely?

An outright ban is only possible if it is clearly regulated in the tenancy agreement or house rules, or if the music unreasonably impairs the use by others. Usually moderate, time-limited rules are appropriate.

What can I do if neighbours are disturbed by my music?

First seek a conversation, offer adjustments (different times, mutes). If that does not help, document incidents and talk to the landlord. In disputes, warnings and court action are possible.

Can I reduce the rent because of noise?

A rent reduction is possible if the living quality is significantly impaired. The extent, duration and frequency of disturbances are decisive; check the requirements carefully and document the impairments.

How-To

1. Notify neighbours and landlord in writing about regular rehearsal times.
2. Use technical measures such as mutes or sound-absorbing materials.
3. Keep a noise log with date, time and duration of disturbances.
4. Try to reach an amicable agreement with neighbours or landlord.
5. If disturbances persist, consider legal steps and contact the local court or legal advice.

Key takeaways

• Quiet, time-limited music making is usually permitted.
• Documentation and communication reduce conflicts and strengthen your position.
• The local court and civil law rules apply in escalated cases.

Help and Support

• BGB § 535 and following
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – rulings on tenancy law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Gerichtliche Entscheidungen