Notifying Changes: Tenant Tips in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you must formally notify changes such as an address change, subletting, or acceptance of additional operating costs. Many tenants underestimate deadlines, required formality and proof obligations, which can lead to losing important rights. This guide explains clearly what information you should send to your landlord, how and when, which common mistakes to avoid and which official forms are relevant. You will find practical examples, checklists for communication and notes on deadlines as well as links to relevant laws and courts in Germany. This helps you act within deadlines, with proper documentation and legal certainty when changes to your tenancy arise. In the following sections you will find step-by-step instructions, sample wordings and advice on how to proceed in conflicts and which courts are competent.

Why notifying changes correctly matters

Tenants should document changes in writing, observe deadlines and keep proof. Written notifications create evidence for later disputes or questions. The legal basis for landlord duties and tenancy relationships is found in the Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding maintenance, costs and termination obligations.^[1]

Common mistakes when notifying changes

• Notification only verbally: No written confirmation available.
• Ignoring deadlines: Replies come too late or not at all.
• Incomplete information: Important data such as move-in date is missing.
• No evidence kept: Tenant receipts, emails or delivery confirmations are missing.

Forms and templates — what you need

There are various official templates and forms tenants can use. Examples include model termination letters or housing benefit applications available through official offices. For terminations, a written termination letter following common templates is recommended; for financial difficulties, check the housing benefit (Wohngeld) application.

How court procedures and deadlines work

For disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides in the first instance for tenancy matters (rent reduction, termination, eviction). Appeals may go to the Landgericht and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) for precedent.^[2][3]

How-To

1. Clarify the type of change and the responsible office or recipient.
2. Use a written template or official form for your notification.
3. Send the notification with proof of delivery (registered mail, confirmation of receipt).
4. Document responses and act within set deadlines.
5. Seek legal help if necessary or contact the local court.

Key takeaways

• Written notifications provide evidence for later disputes.
• Keep all receipts and delivery confirmations securely.
• Use official forms when available.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB (legal basis)
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO (procedural law)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• Service Portal: official forms

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] ZPO (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (bundesgerichtshof.de)