Report Changes: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you must inform your landlord of many changes — for example a new address, changed income, additional household members or a changed bank account for rent payment. This guide explains clearly and practically which information is important, which deadlines apply and how to draft formal letters safely. I show you concrete sample texts, when landlords may need to agree and which official forms are relevant. I also describe how to document evidence, which authorities help with housing allowance applications and when a court may become involved. The goal is to make you able to act and to protect your rights as a tenant. Read the templates, adapt the texts to your situation and keep proofs safe. If unsure, we name the competent courts and authorities.

Tenant obligations when changes occur

Landlords have duties under the German Civil Code (BGB) to maintain the rental property and provide information; tenants also have notification duties when circumstances change that affect performance or the agreement (^[1]).

• Report address change (new postal address, move into the apartment).
• Notify changed bank account for rent payments.
• Report changed income (important for housing allowance or social benefits).
• Notify additional household members (subletting, household members).
• Report changes to pets or commercial use.

How to notify changes correctly

Write briefly, factually and include the date: state the change, the effective date and attach relevant evidence (e.g. registration certificate, pay slip, bank statement). Send the notification by registered mail or by email with read receipt if email communication is allowed in the contract.

Forms and templates

For certain changes there are official notices and application forms, for example for housing allowance or for submission to authorities. If you must give a termination or a deadline-bound declaration, observe the form and time requirements of civil procedure and the BGB (^[2]).

• Template: Short notice for address change to landlord.
• Template: Notification of changed bank details.
• Official forms for housing allowance applications and guidance from authorities (^[3]).

Common disputes and court proceedings

Disagreements about effectiveness or deadlines can go to the local court (Amtsgericht); in some disputes appeals proceed to the higher regional court or the Federal Court of Justice. Be careful to meet deadlines for responses, otherwise you may suffer disadvantages in proceedings.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to report every change immediately?

You should report changes as soon as they are relevant to contract performance; for address or payment details this means very promptly.

2. What deadlines apply to notifications?

Deadlines can be contractually agreed; otherwise reasonable deadlines apply. For authority applications check the specific rules.

3. What happens if I do not report?

Failure to notify can have legal consequences, e.g. payment issues, repayment claims or evidentiary disadvantages in proceedings.

How-To

1. Note the change and the date it takes effect.
2. Prepare a short letter with name, address, lease number and description of the change.
3. Attach supporting documents (e.g. registration certificate, pay slip, bank statement).
4. Send the notification by registered mail or email with receipt and keep a copy.
5. If the landlord objects, document communication and consider legal steps or advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• § 535 BGB: Duties of the landlord
• ZPO – Civil Procedure Code
• Housing allowance information (BMWSB)

1. [1] § 535 BGB – Vermieterpflichten (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Wohngeld – Informationen und Formulare (bmwsb.bund.de)