Report Tenant Changes Correctly in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, things often change, such as your address, household members or your income. This article explains step by step which changes you must report, when and to whom, which official forms exist and which deadlines to observe. I name official authorities, relevant laws like the BGB and show which local courts are responsible if a dispute goes to court. Practical templates help when writing.

Which changes should you report?

Typical changes you should inform the landlord or authorities about are:

• Address change: report a new apartment or street and house number.
• Change in household members: move-ins or move-outs of other residents.
• Income change: important for housing benefit or social support.
• Subletting or new agreements on additional costs with the landlord.

When to report? Deadlines and evidence

Report changes in writing to the landlord as soon as possible and check whether authorities must be informed; duties are set out in the BGB.^[1] For allowances and housing eligibility, provisions in the WoFG apply.^[2] In disputes, the local court often decides tenancy matters; eviction suits and similar procedures are handled there.^[3]

Common evidence includes the rental contract, current bank statements, payslips, photos for defects and written agreements with the landlord.

• Rental contract: keep a copy ready.
• Payslips: for housing benefit or income changes.
• Photos and logs: for damages or lack of heating.

Forms and templates

Important forms and templates tenants often need:

• Housing benefit application: apply at your municipality or the responsible state office (forms available locally).
• Registration confirmation: for registration at the residentsregistration office.
• Tenant termination letter: check deadlines and wording; example templates help structure the letter.

Practical example: For a housing benefit application, attach recent payslips and a copy of the rental contract; many cities offer an online form or PDF download.

What to do in case of disputes with the landlord?

If problems arise from reports or changes, first seek a written agreement. If that fails, mediation bodies, tenancy courts or filing a claim at the local court may follow. Documentation, exact deadlines and witness statements become critical.

FAQ

When must I notify my landlord of a new address?

You should notify your landlord in writing as soon as possible and keep a confirmation.

What evidence is required for a housing benefit application?

Commonly required are the rental contract, income statements and household composition details; exact lists are provided by the responsible office.

Where do I turn in case of an eviction lawsuit?

Eviction lawsuits are heard at the competent local court; observe deadlines promptly and gather documents.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents: rental contract, bank statements, payslips.
2. Write a short notification to the landlord with date and signature.
3. Submit official applications if needed (e.g. housing benefit) to the municipality with supporting documents.
4. Send important letters by registered mail or keep a proof of receipt.
5. Keep copies of all documents and correspondence permanently.
6. Seek legal advice promptly in case of disputes or contact the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Report changes in writing and on time.
• Support reports with copies and evidence.
• Use official forms from your municipality or state.

Help and Support

• BGB §535 - Rights and duties of the rental contract
• WoFG - Housing Promotion Act (information on housing benefit)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - tenancy law decisions

1. [1] BGB §535 - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - Decisions and information