Mediation Checklist for Tenants in Germany

A mediation can be a fast, confidential way for tenants in a flatshare in Germany to resolve neighborhood or tenancy disputes without court proceedings. This checklist explains which documents you should collect, how to prepare appointments, which deadlines matter and which official forms or laws may be relevant. It is aimed at flatshare residents and individual tenants who want to clarify disagreements about rent payments, maintenance or access. The language is practical and free of legal jargon; concrete examples show how to sort evidence, set meeting goals and how mediation typically proceeds. At the end you will find notes on courts, relevant statutes and official contact points in Germany.

Preparation

Collect all relevant documents and arrange them chronologically. Briefly note which points you want to raise with the mediator. Legal basics for landlord and tenant duties and rights can be found in the BGB.^[1] If court action such as an eviction claim becomes relevant, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply.^[2]

Important documents

• Tenancy agreement (document)
• Last three rent payments (rent)
• Photos of defects (photo)
• Correspondence with landlord/management (document)
• Security deposit account statement (deposit)
• Witness details with contact information (evidence)

Mediation process

A session starts with a brief introduction and clarification of goals. The mediator moderates, both parties present their views in turn, then joint solution options are developed. Mediation is confidential and voluntary; the outcome can be a signed agreement that contains rules for the future. If legal measures are necessary, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; fundamental decisions on tenancy law come from the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

FAQ

How much does mediation cost for tenants?

Costs vary; often landlord and tenant share fees. In some cities there are funded or free counseling offers via tenants' associations and municipal services.

Does my landlord have to attend mediation?

No, mediation is voluntary. Participation can lead to quick contractual solutions; without agreement the court route remains available.

Which documents are most important?

Especially the tenancy agreement, payment records, photos of defects and correspondence with the landlord are crucial to substantiate your position.

How-To

1. Collect documents and arrange them chronologically (document).
2. Define clear goals for the meeting, e.g. repair deadline or installment plan.
3. Schedule appointment with the mediator and note deadlines (appointment).
4. Inform all participants and confirm witness availability (contact).
5. Prepare technical evidence such as expert reports or cost estimates (repair).
6. Record agreements in writing and sign them.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

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