Noise Log for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face regular noise disturbances and are unsure how to collect evidence and proceed securely under the law. A structured noise log with date, time, duration, type of disturbance and photos or recordings helps to support claims such as rent reduction or a complaint to the landlord. This guide explains step by step which details are necessary in the log, how to timestamp photos, which deadlines to observe and when a local court may be involved. Write clearly, document repeated incidents and store all evidence. This improves your chances in negotiations or legal proceedings and protects your rights as a tenant under German tenancy law.

What to include in a noise log

A good log describes each disturbance as concretely as possible. Record clear facts rather than evaluations so the log can be more easily used by courts or authorities.

• Date and time: Record day, start and end of the disturbance.
• Duration and frequency: Note whether the disturbance is one-off, recurring or continuous.
• Type of disturbance: Describe the noise source (music, construction, dogs, footsteps) and loudness.
• Involved persons or areas: Who causes the noise and from which apartment or direction does it come?
• Evidence: Photo and video files with filename, timestamp and storage location indicated.

Documenting photos and audio correctly

Photos and videos are strong evidence when clearly dated and unaltered. Pay attention to readable filenames and secure backups. Audio recordings that capture conversations may have legal limits; therefore primarily document the noise level and time rather than private conversations.

• Timestamp photos: Use filenames with date and time (e.g., "2025-06-01_22-15.jpg") and add a short caption.
• Secure files: Store originals in two locations (e.g., local folder and cloud backup).
• Audio recordings: Focus on capturing noise and timestamps; avoid recording private conversations without consent.
• Assemble evidence: Keep log, written notifications and responses together in one file.

Legal steps and deadlines

Inform the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for removing the disturbance. If no remedy is provided, rent reduction may be considered; the legal basis is in the BGB ^[1]. For persistent problems, the local court is competent if a lawsuit is filed. Civil procedure rules for claims and evidence are set out in the ZPO ^[2]. In borderline cases, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice clarify the law ^[3].

When rent reduction is possible

Rent reduction may be possible if the habitability or use of the apartment is significantly impaired by noise. The amount and start depend on the case-specific circumstances and the rules in the BGB ^[1]. Record repetitions and intensity of the disturbance in the log.

If negotiations fail

If no agreement is reached, enforcement of claims through the local court is possible. Present your complete documentation there: noise logs, photos, written communication with the landlord and witness statements. The ZPO governs formal requirements and deadlines for lawsuits ^[2], and BGH case law can affect the prospects of success ^[3].

FAQ

How many incidents do I need for an effective log?

Quality over quantity: Several documented, timely and detailed incidents significantly strengthen your position.

Can I record my neighbor with audio?

Recordings that capture private conversations can be legally problematic; primarily document the noise and consult legal advice if unsure.

Which authority decides on rent reduction or damages?

Civil disputes are usually decided by the local court; higher instances include the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice.

How-To

1. Observe and note: Document date, time, duration, type of disturbance and affected areas.
2. Take photos and videos: Use clear filenames and short descriptions.
3. Notify the landlord in writing: State facts, attach the log and set a deadline for remedy.
4. Monitor deadlines: Record the landlord's response and respect time limits.
5. If unsuccessful, prepare a complete file and consider filing at the local court.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – official site

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions and information