Noise Log & Photos: Tenant Evidence in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you can use a noise log and photos to enforce your rights when noise recurs. A reliable log records date, time, duration and type of noise, supplemented by clear photos with timestamps and, where possible, brief written statements from neighbors. This article explains step by step which details matter, how to secure photos and recordings admissibly in court and which forms or court steps in Germany may become relevant. The language stays accessible; you receive practical templates for sending logs to the landlord and guidance for presenting evidence at the local court. This way tenants know exactly how to collect evidence and meet deadlines.

When is a noise log admissible?

A noise log is admissible when entries are precise, made regularly and supported by photos or other evidence. Record date, start and end, loudness or type of disturbance and repeated incidents. Completeness matters: gaps weaken credibility. Courts rely on the landlord's maintenance obligations under the BGB^[1].

How to keep a noise log correctly

• Record date, time and duration of the disturbance precisely.
• Describe the type of noise (e.g. music, drilling, loud conversation) and estimate intensity.
• Take photos with timestamps and keep original files unchanged.
• Name witnesses and obtain short written statements.
• Keep the log regularly and send copies to the landlord; send important letters in a verifiable way.

Photos and technical notes

Photos are stronger when metadata and timestamps remain. Avoid post-editing, back up original files and note the context for each image. Audio recordings can complement but are sensitive under data protection law; check before publishing. In court, consistency and traceability often matter; the local court may be responsible if needed^[2].

Legal steps and forms

If talks with the landlord do not help, formal steps are possible: warning, rent reduction, termination or lawsuit. Important forms and sample letters (e.g. termination letter, court filing) are available from official authorities. Use verified templates and observe deadlines, dispatch method and service; the exact procedure follows the rules of the ZPO^[3].

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent if noise occurs constantly?

Yes, tenants can reduce rent if use of the dwelling is impaired; a reliable log makes enforcement easier.

Are photos alone enough as evidence?

Photos support the claim but are usually strongest when combined with a detailed log and witness statements.

Where should I turn in case of escalating neighbor noise?

First speak to the landlord; if no solution is found you can involve the local court or seek legal advice.

How-To

1. Collect date, time and photos for each incident immediately.
2. Name witnesses and obtain brief written statements.
3. Send a formal log to the landlord by registered mail with return receipt.
4. If necessary, present the documents to the local court or include them in a lawsuit file.

Help and Support

• BGB §535 – Landlord obligations
• ZPO – Code of Civil Procedure
• Justice portal – Information on courts

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Justice portal – Information on courts