Tenant Evidence for Conversion Freeze in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a conversion from rental to condominium can trigger a conversion freeze that temporarily protects against certain evictions or immediate measures. This article explains how to collect and use evidence during the freeze, which deadlines apply and which sample letters you can use to protect your rights. It describes in practical terms which official forms are useful, how to proceed at the local court and when rent reduction or an eviction lawsuit may be relevant. The language remains easy to understand, and at the end you will find a short how-to, FAQ and official links to laws and forms for further reading. If you act, document everything and seek legal advice or free counseling if needed.

What is the conversion freeze after conversion?

The conversion freeze protects tenants after a conversion from rental to condominium for a period, preventing certain evictions or immediate conversion measures. The aim is to avoid social hardship and give affected tenants time for objections or legal steps. Legal bases for tenancy obligations and the landlord's duties can be found in the relevant provisions of the BGB^[1].

Which pieces of evidence are important?

• Photos of the apartment condition (before and after notices).
• Correspondence with the landlord (emails, letters, SMS logs).
• Payment receipts for rent and deposit.
• Handover records and the tenancy agreement.
• Witness statements with contact details.

Sample letters and form guidance

Use sample letters to set deadlines or raise formal objections. A simple effective sample letter briefly states the facts, sets a deadline for a response and requests submission of all conversion documents. Official forms and templates for lawsuits and documents are available at the competent local court or ministries^[3].

Short sample letter (example): I hereby set a two-week deadline to submit the full conversion documentation and point out my right to present evidence and to consider legal steps. Please confirm receipt in writing.

Deadlines, court and legal remedies

Deadlines are crucial: name clear dates in the sample letter and respond to expiry dates. If a lawsuit follows, civil procedure rules apply; proceedings at the local court follow the ZPO^[2]. Note that eviction suits have specific procedural steps and evidence must be submitted on time.

• Set a deadline: clearly specify date and number of days in the sample letter.
• Send forms: use official forms or registered mail and document receipt.
• File suit: submit an eviction or performance claim at the local court if necessary.
• Attend hearings: note court dates and bring all evidence.
• Present evidence: have copies of photos, payment receipts and correspondence ready.

FAQ

What should I do if the landlord serves notice during the freeze?

Check the notice in writing, collect evidence and set a short deadline for a response. Consider sending a sample letter and, if necessary, initiating legal action at the local court.

Which deadlines matter?

Important are the deadlines named in your sample letter and the procedural deadlines under the ZPO; prepare objections or legal action in time.^[2]

Where can I find official forms and templates?

Official forms are available at the competent local court or ministries; use the forms and templates provided there.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, payment confirmations and correspondence.
2. Draft a sample letter with a deadline and request for documents.
3. Deliver the letter by registered mail or other verifiable means.
4. If no agreement, prepare court documents for the local court and file them.
5. Bring organized copies of all evidence to the hearing.

Help and Support

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

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection: Forms