Online Tenant Advice for WGs in Germany

Many tenants in shared flats seek online advice today because in-person appointments are hard to find or quick help is needed. This article explains how you as a tenant in Germany can practically prepare an online consultation for your shared flat: which documents are required, which forms matter, and how to communicate deadlines and evidence securely. I describe step by step how to structure rent defects, utility billing questions or eviction threats and which official forms and courts are relevant. The tips are aimed at tenants without legal background and help make the consultation efficient and legally sound. For example: gather the rental contract, photos of defects, heating bill and correspondence with the landlord before booking the appointment.

What to prepare

• Rental contract (document)
• Photos of defects (photo)
• Receipts and rent payments (payment)
• Heating bill & statements (receipt)
• Correspondence with the landlord (document)

Technical and organizational setup for online advice

Prepare the technology and the order of topics so that the consultation is focused. Check camera, microphone and internet connection and choose a quiet room without interruptions. Share the main points with the advisory office in advance so there is more time for legal clarification during the appointment.

• Book an appointment (calendar)
• Have forms ready (form)
• Check contact details and availability (help)

Authorities and legal basics

In Germany, the Civil Code (BGB) regulates the main duties of landlords and tenants, especially §§ 535–580a.^[1] For court procedures the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies; many tenancy disputes are heard in the local court (Amtsgericht), appeals go to the higher regional court (Landgericht).^[2] Important forms include the application for legal advice assistance, the application for legal aid (PKH), and sample letters for termination or defect notices; check in advance which forms your advisory office requires.^[3]

FAQ

How should I prepare photos for the consultation?

Take clear, dated photos of defects, upload them in a single folder in chronological order and briefly note when the defect occurred.

Which deadlines should I observe?

Check and respond promptly to warnings or official letters within the stated deadline; note the date of receipt and act quickly with the advisory office.

Do I need a power of attorney for representation in the consultation?

For pure consultations a power of attorney is usually not required; for formal filings or court representation you will need a written power of attorney.

How-To

1. Book an appointment (calendar)
2. Collect and sort documents (document)
3. Have photos and evidence ready (photo)
4. Structure your questions (note)
5. Complete and submit required forms (form)

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)

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1. [1] BGB §535 - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO - Zivilprozessordnung - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] BMJV Forms - Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection