Check Tenant Rights in Germany – Documents

As a tenant in Germany you have a right to safe living conditions and clear information on when you can assert rent reduction, repairs or other rights. This practical guide helps you systematically check your claim: which documents you need, how to document defects and which deadlines apply. It explains the most important sections of the BGB,^[1] names competent courts such as the Amtsgericht^[2] and shows how to find official forms and submit them on time. The language remains clear so you as a tenant can make confident decisions. At the end you will find a documents checklist, sample notes and information on housing assistance and legal channels in Germany. The step-by-step checklist makes the process easier.

What to do now

First check which claims you want to pursue specifically: rent reduction due to defects, cost coverage for repairs or protection against unlawful termination. Note the date, nature of the defect and any communications already sent to the landlord. Observe deadlines: many rights lapse if you do not react in time.

Important documents

• Rental contract (Form) – signed contract and attachments
• Handover protocol and photos (photo) with date
• Payment receipts (rent payments) such as bank statements and receipts
• Correspondence with the landlord (notice) – emails, letters, reports
• Defect list with date and, if applicable, cost estimates (repair)

Forms and templates

For concrete steps you often need standardized letters or applications. Examples:

• Termination letter template (sample termination) – when you need to terminate properly yourself; use a signed, dated letter and send by registered mail if you need proof.
• Housing allowance application (housing allowance form) – if your housing costs are hard to bear; submit the application to the local housing allowance office with proof of income.^[3]

FAQ

What can I do about mold in the apartment?

Document immediately (photos, date), inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for remediation. If problems persist, rent reduction may be possible.

How should I act if the landlord terminates the lease?

Check the grounds for termination, deadlines and formal errors. Object in writing, seek advice and observe any eviction deadlines.

Which deadlines apply for asserting defects?

Defects should be reported without delay after discovery; statutory limitation periods of the BGB apply for court actions. Collect evidence and act promptly.

How-To

1. Collect documents (document): rental contract, handover protocol, photos and payment records.
2. Notify in writing (notice): describe the defect, give the date and set a deadline for the landlord.
3. Allow repairs (repair): grant access and document appointments.
4. If necessary, sue (court): file evidence at the Amtsgericht or obtain legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB: Civil Code – gesetze-im-internet.de
• ZPO: Code of Civil Procedure – gesetze-im-internet.de
• WoFG: Housing Promotion Act – gesetze-im-internet.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – gesetze-im-internet.de