Prepare Tenant First Consultation in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, a well prepared first consultation is often decisive, especially in shared flats. Collect the lease agreement, handover protocol, rent payments, photos of defects and your communication with the landlord early so advisors can quickly assess the legal situation. Note deadlines, who in the flat shares which costs, and bring concrete questions about termination, rent reduction or repairs. This preparation saves time at advice centers or tenant associations and increases the chance to enforce claims or plan appropriate steps. Bring proof of rent payments and deposit accounting, copies of rent increases or utility bills, and witness statements if available. The relevant legal bases are the BGB (§§ 535–580a) and the ZPO for court procedures.[1] Use the BMJ sample termination letter or official form guidance for notices.[2] Below you will find checklists, form guidance and local courts responsible for rental disputes.[3]
Which documents to bring
- Lease agreement (complete copy) and amendments
- Handover protocol and key confirmation
- Proof of rent payments, deposit accounting and utilities
- Photos of defects, time and short description
- Correspondence (emails, letters) and witness details
Keep digital copies secure and in chronological order.
Checklist for shared flats
- Collect who in the flat covers which costs and who signed
- Record rent payments with date and recipient
- Clear agreements on key handover and repair responsibilities
Do not sign additional agreements without prior review.
Forms & jurisdiction
For legal checks, the BGB (§§ 535–580a)[1] and the ZPO are relevant. For terminations you can use the BMJ sample termination letter or contact advisory services for guidance.[2] Rental disputes are usually decided by local courts (Amtsgerichte) in the first instance.[3]
What advisors check
- Legal position based on lease and evidence
- Relevance and severity of defects for rent reduction
- Applicable deadlines and required forms
- Options for termination or eviction and court procedures
Good documentation shortens consultation time and improves chances of success.
FAQ
- Which documents are most important for a first consultation?
- Lease agreement, handover protocol, payment receipts, photos of defects and correspondence with the landlord.
- Who decides rental disputes?
- Local courts (Amtsgerichte) decide in the first instance; BGH decisions shape major legal questions.[3]
- Are there official sample forms for terminations?
- Yes, the Federal Ministry of Justice provides templates and guidance.[2]
How-To
- Collect lease, handover protocol and payment receipts.
- Photograph defects and note date and time.
- Summarize correspondence and highlight deadlines.
- Make an appointment with an advice center or tenant association.
- Discuss possible steps, including deadlines and litigation options.
- Store all documents in an organized digital and physical file.
