Protect Tenants from Economic Exploitation in Germany
As a tenant in a German big city you may face so-called "economic exploitation": the landlord terminates the lease to use the property differently or to re-rent it at a higher price. This guide explains in practical terms what rights tenants in Germany have, which deadlines apply and which official forms and courts are involved. It shows concrete steps to resist — from documentation through formal objections to a possible lawsuit at the local court — and lists example forms and authorities. The language is simple so you can act quickly, avoid missing deadlines and strengthen your position against the landlord. If necessary, the text also describes when professional legal advice or tenant association support is sensible and how to securely collect evidence such as photos, emails and witness statements.
What does "economic exploitation" mean?
Economic exploitation refers to a landlord terminating a tenancy because they want to rent the apartment at a higher price, refurbish it, or use it otherwise. Such terminations are assessed against the provisions of the German Civil Code (BGB) on termination and legitimate interest; tenants have protection rights and there are specific requirements for social justification.
Your rights as a tenant
Tenants have duties but also protection: termination protection, special rules for personal need or modernization, and a right to have the apartment maintained in contractual condition. Inform the landlord in writing about defects and demand remedy with a deadline if necessary. Legal bases are found in the BGB and for court procedures in the ZPO.[1][2]
Practical steps to resist
- Check deadlines and note immediately when termination notices or letters arrive.
- Object in writing and send a substantiated response to the landlord.
- Collect evidence: photos, emails, witnesses, proof of rent payments and contract copies.
- If necessary prepare a suit or counterclaim at the competent local court where many tenancy disputes are heard.
- Seek early advice: contact a lawyer, tenant association or local advisory services.
Forms and authorities
There is no nationwide standard "termination defense form", but important documents and forms are available from official sources: legal texts in the electronic law portal, court forms on the state justice portals and information from the Federal Ministry of Justice.[1][3]
When the local court is competent
Many tenancy disputes — especially eviction actions, rent reduction or damages claims — are heard at the local court. Decisions can be appealed to the regional court and, in last instance, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).[2]
Important tactical notes
- Set clear deadlines in your letters and request confirmations by registered mail.
- For defects: demand remediation in writing with a deadline.
- Check whether social hardship or legal protection rules can prevent the termination.
FAQ
- Can a landlord terminate due to economic exploitation?
- Under certain conditions yes, but tenants can contest terminations and have social protection.
- Which deadlines are important?
- Deadlines for objection, eviction and filing suit vary; check incoming dates immediately and respond in writing.
- Where should I turn in an eviction suit?
- The local court is typically competent; legal assistance and tenant associations provide support.
How-To
- Set deadlines: note all deadlines from the termination and respond within the stated time.
- Document: collect photos, messages, payment records and witness statements.
- Object in writing: send a substantiated letter to the landlord by registered mail.
- Seek advice: contact a tenant association or legal counsel if the situation is unclear.
- Court steps: if necessary file suit at the local court; observe ZPO rules.
Key takeaways
- Deadlines are critical and must be recorded immediately.
- Good documentation can determine the outcome of a dispute.
- Seek professional support early.
