Organize a Dorm WG: Tenant Tips in Germany

As a tenant in a dormitory, organizing a shared flat (WG) can be practical but may also cause conflicts with roommates or landlords. This guide clearly explains which rights and duties tenants in Germany have, how to agree on lease points, report repairs, and fairly set shared rules. You will learn practical steps for documenting defects, communicating with property management, and observing deadlines for termination or rent increases. Examples show which official forms may be required and when a local court (Amtsgericht) is competent. The aim is calm WG daily organization without legal uncertainty so that all residents can live safely and with legal certainty. The text also shows simple conflict resolution rules and examples for rent reduction.

Rights and Duties as a Tenant

As a tenant, under the German Civil Code (BGB) you have obligations to pay rent and to take care of the rental property; the landlord is obliged to maintain it^[1]. In case of significant defects, tenants may reduce rent, but the defect must first be reported.

• Check and respect deadlines (deadlines) for termination and rent increases.
• Report defects in writing immediately and set a reasonable repair deadline (repair).
• Collect dated photos and documents (photo, document) as evidence.
• Keep forms and receipts (form) for deposit handling or operating costs ready.

Organizing the WG Practically

Clear rules help avoid disputes: assign roles, a cleaning rota, joint deposit use and procedures for repairs; record agreements in the lease or an addendum and discuss expectations on noise, visitors and cleaning.

• Put shared rules in writing and have everyone sign (form).
• Save contact (contact) details for property management and housemates centrally.
• Plan who handles move-out (move-out) tasks.

Maintenance, Repairs and Reporting Paths

Complaints about heating failure, mold or water damage should be sent in writing to property management; set a reasonable deadline for remedy. If there is no response, document deadlines and further contacts before considering legal steps.

Important Forms and Examples

• Termination letter (sample): write a signed, dated termination including address and apartment details; often an informal letter suffices, but observe exact deadlines.
• Defect notification / complaint: short written description with date and deadline for remedy; useful for later rent reduction.
• Eviction claim application: filed by the landlord at the local court; as a tenant, respond in time and seek legal advice if needed (court).

Note: Official form offers and jurisdiction information are available from judicial authorities and the legal texts (see footnotes).

FAQ

Can I reduce rent if the heating fails?

Yes, in principle rent reduction is possible if usability is significantly impaired. Report the defect immediately in writing and document the failure; legal bases are found in the BGB.^[1]

Who is responsible for an eviction claim?

The local court (Amtsgericht) is competent in the first instance; appeals go to the Landgericht and ultimately to the Federal Court of Justice.^[2]

What deadlines must I observe when terminating a lease?

Statutory termination periods are regulated in the BGB; check your lease for deviations and comply with deadlines in writing.

How-To

1. Document the defect in detail with photos and dates (document).
2. Send a formal defect notification to property management and set a deadline (form).
3. Wait for the deadline while recording further contacts and responses (deadlines).
4. If no remedy occurs, consider rent reduction or legal action; contact the local court if necessary (court).

Key Takeaways

• Written documentation is the most important protection in disputes.
• Clear, written WG rules reduce conflicts and misunderstandings.
• For serious legal issues, courts and statutory regulations are decisive.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§ 535–580a
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law
• Justizportal – Information on local courts

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Justizportal – Information on courts and jurisdictions