Tenant Protection: Conversion Lockout Period in Germany

Tenants in Germany often face the question of whether and how a legal lockout period can be enforced when rental apartments are converted into condominiums. This text clearly explains tenants' rights, applicable deadlines and how to submit necessary forms or prepare objections. I show practical steps for documentation, communication with the landlord and court procedures if an eviction is threatened. I refer to relevant statutes, competent courts such as the local court (Amtsgericht) and explain which pieces of evidence help. The guide is aimed at non-legal readers and offers concrete actions for 2025.

What does the lockout period after conversion mean?

The lockout period protects tenants when a rental unit is converted into condominium ownership. Relevant rental law provisions are found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a.^[1] For conversion-specific restrictions and lockout periods, §577a BGB should be checked; it describes the prerequisites and exceptions.^[2]

How can tenants practically enforce the lockout period?

Proceed in clear steps: check deadlines, collect evidence, use official forms and involve the local court if necessary. Eviction proceedings follow procedural rules of the ZPO.^[3]

• Check deadlines: Determine when the conversion took effect and which lockout period applies.
• Collect evidence: Secure photos, correspondence, witness statements and payment records.
• Complete forms: Submit objections and, if necessary, court forms fully and on time.
• Contact the landlord: Communicate in writing, state deadlines and obtain proof of receipt.
• Court steps: If necessary, defend eviction suits before the local court or file your own applications.

What tenants should focus on when gathering evidence

Documentation is key: date all letters, take photos of condition and changes and record conversations with date and time. If neighbors can confirm statements, obtain signed declarations.

Forms and templates (official)

Relevant official documents are usually available on federal or justice websites. Examples and practice:

• Sample objection to termination (written): Use a dated letter to the landlord, briefly state the objection and assert that a lockout period applies. Example: "I hereby object to the termination dated [date] due to the lockout period after conversion."
• Filing a claim at the local court (claim form): If eviction is imminent, file a claim or protective submission at the competent local court with facts and evidence attached.
• Evidence checklist: Create a list of all documents and photos to present in court.

FAQ

What is a lockout period after conversion?

The lockout period is a time-based protection for tenants that can make terminations after conversion into condominiums more difficult or prevent them altogether.

How long does a lockout period last?

The duration varies according to statutory rules and the individual case; check §577a BGB and local provisions or seek legal advice.

Can the landlord still terminate?

In certain exceptional cases terminations are possible, for example for serious reasons; a judicial review is recommended if in doubt.

How-To

1. Check deadlines: Determine the date of conversion and the applicable lockout periods.
2. Collect evidence: Secure photos, rent payments, correspondence and witness statements.
3. Fill in objections/forms: Draft and date your objection and attach supporting documents.
4. Inform the landlord: Send letters by registered mail and note acknowledgements of receipt.
5. Consider court action: If necessary, file a claim or protective submission at the local court.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice (forms and information)
• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (case law)

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] §577a BGB (conversion) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de