Reporting Changes for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you must properly notify the landlord of changes such as new bank details, additional household members, or modernization measures. This article explains when and how to document changes legally, which deadlines apply, and which official forms or sample letters are helpful. We give practical examples for notifications, deadlines for rent increases, handling defects, and tips for communication before a possible termination or eviction suit. We also list relevant sections of the BGB, responsible courts and official authorities so you can make decisions based on solid information. The language is deliberately simple so you can implement the next steps immediately. We also provide links to official forms.

How to notify changes legally

In practice many cases start with you sending a written notification to the landlord. State clearly which change applies, from when it is effective and attach evidence. Relevant rules for the tenancy contract are in §§ 535–580a BGB^[1], and procedural paths for enforcement and lawsuits are governed by the ZPO^[2].

• Check deadlines (deadline: act within the set period).
• Create a written notification (notice: date, exact changes and signature).
• Attach evidence (evidence: photos, invoices or witness statements).
• Send by registered mail or hand over personally with receipt confirmation (mail).
• Keep copies and logs (record of all communication).
• For ongoing disputes, a lawsuit at the local court may be necessary (court).

For housing benefit (Wohngeld) or forms for legal aid, use the official forms and advisory services of the authorities. In an eviction suit, timely responses are important; do not miss appointments at the local court or inquiries to your housing benefit office.

FAQ

When must I notify the landlord of changes?

You should notify changes as soon as they are relevant to the tenancy, e.g. new bank details, apartment changes or additional occupants. When in doubt: inform in writing promptly.

How do I word the notification correctly?

Briefly describe the facts, state the effective date and attach evidence. Send the notification by registered mail or hand it over with a receipt confirmation.

What can I do if the landlord does not respond?

Document your attempts to contact them, set a reasonable deadline and consider legal steps or advice; the local court is the first instance for tenancy disputes.

How-To

1. Identify the change and gather evidence (evidence).
2. Draft a short written notification with date and signature (notice).
3. Send the notification by registered mail or hand it over in person (mail).
4. Note deadlines and respond within the set times (deadline).
5. If necessary, file a lawsuit at the local court or apply for legal aid.

Help & Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
• Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
• Bundesgerichtshof – Case law on tenancy law

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Case law on tenancy law