Online Tenant Advice in Germany Timely

Tenant Associations & Advice Services 2 min read · published September 07, 2025
As a tenant in Germany you can quickly feel uncertain about rent, eviction or repairs. This guide explains how to obtain legal advice online on time, which official forms and deadlines are important and which courts and authorities may be responsible. I describe practical steps for documenting defects, how to correctly word defect notifications and how to communicate safely with the property manager. I also show which legal foundations are in the BGB[1] and which local courts you should know, where to find official forms[3] and how to get short-term support for urgent problems. The advice is written in plain language and helps you meet deadlines, secure evidence and, if necessary, prevent an eviction date.

Key Steps

This overview helps you act in priority and on time: document, inform, set deadlines, use forms, and contact the local court if needed.

Immediate measures for defects

  • Inform the landlord in writing by e-mail (notice), record date and content.
  • Document photos and dates (evidence) and store them securely.
  • Set a concrete deadline for repair (deadline) and communicate it in writing.
  • In case of immediate danger inform emergency services and act promptly (safety).
Keep all rent receipts organized and stored safely.

Forms & Deadlines

For terminations, defect notifications or lawsuits there are standardized forms and deadlines; read templates carefully and use official forms[3].

  • Use termination letter templates (form) for on-time resignations.
  • Use defect notification templates (form) to state claim and deadline clearly.
  • Attach evidence and make copies before submitting documents.
Always respond to formal letters within the deadlines.

Courts & Jurisdiction

Disputes in tenancy law are usually heard by the local court; on appeal the regional courts and in some cases the Federal Court of Justice are responsible[2].

  • Contact the local court (court) if the landlord seeks an eviction or you face an eviction issue.
  • Before suing: check legal protection and collect all evidence.
  • Seek online or telephone legal advice (contact) for timely recommendations.
The local court is often the first instance for tenancy disputes.

Key Takeaways

  • Meeting deadlines is decisive for protecting your rights.
  • Good documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
  • Use official government links and forms for reliable information.

FAQ

How do I apply for a rent reduction?
Write a defect notification, set a deadline for repair and document evidence; the legal basis is §§ 535–580a BGB.[1]
What should I do if there is an eviction lawsuit?
Check the complaint, respond on time at the local court and collect evidence; consider short-term legal help or legal protection.[2]
Which forms do I need?
There are official templates for termination, defect notifications or lawsuits; use government forms and keep copies.[3]

How-To

  1. Collect documents: secure photos, correspondence and receipts (evidence).
  2. Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for remedy (notice).
  3. Fill out official forms and make copies (form).
  4. Contact the local court and file a claim or application if necessary (court).
  5. Seek online advice, tenant association or legal protection to coordinate steps (contact).

Help and Support


  1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a - Gesetze im Internet
  2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
  3. [3] Offizielle Formulare und Services - Serviceportal Bund
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.