Shared Kitchen Rules for Tenants in Germany
Many tenants in Germany share communal kitchens in apartment buildings or flatshares. To make shared living work, you need clear rules about cleaning, use and cost sharing. This guide explains tenants' rights and obligations, how to create a simple kitchen house rule, and how to document conflicts calmly. You will also find practical templates for warnings and notices to the landlord and guidance on when a local court may need to be involved. Language is clear and practical so you can take the first steps yourself without a lawyer.
Rights and Obligations
As a tenant in Germany, you should know your rights and duties, especially for shared areas like a communal kitchen. The legal basis is in the BGB and procedures before the local court.[1][2]
Sections 535–538 of the BGB contain the central rental law provisions.
Practical Rules for Shared Kitchens
Simple, workable rules reduce disputes: who cleans when, how costs are shared and how to handle broken appliances.
- Cleaning schedule (schedule): set fixed duties and days, e.g. weekly.
- Cost sharing (rent/fee): agree on contributions for consumables and spare parts.
- Repairs (repair): report defects, set deadlines and collect receipts.
- Written rules (form): create a simple house rule or notice and distribute it.
Keep receipts and photos of the kitchen stored safely.
Resolve Conflicts Calmly
Documentation helps: dates, witnesses and photos increase your chances when speaking with the landlord or in court. If necessary, an application can be submitted to the local court.[2]
Templates and Forms
Relevant official regulations are the BGB and the ZPO; template letters for termination or defect notices can be adapted to your situation.
- Defect notice (form): report defects in writing and set a deadline for remedy.
- Termination letter (form): use only when justified and observe deadlines.
FAQ
- Who pays for broken kitchen appliances?
- In general, the landlord bears the costs for maintaining the rental property; minor repairs may be regulated differently in the lease.[1]
- Can I have a communal kitchen locked?
- A full lockout is only permitted in exceptional cases; often a written agreement or mediation helps.
- When is the local court responsible?
- The local court handles many tenancy disputes, such as eviction suits or rent reduction cases.[2]
How-To
- Document (form): collect photos, dates, names and a short description.
- Contact (call): inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline.
- Check the law (court): bring documents to the local court or prepare a claim if needed.
- Implement solution (success): record any agreement in writing.
Key Takeaways
- Clear rules prevent many conflicts.
- Detailed documentation is decisive.
