Shared Kitchens Fairly – Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, using a shared kitchen can be practical and cost-saving, but it can also cause conflicts. This guide explains step by step how tenant parties can fairly organize shared kitchen spaces: who cleans, how costs are divided, which rules should be included in the house rules, and how you can enforce rights if problems arise. I also explain relevant legal bases under the BGB^[1], which local courts are responsible^[2], and which official forms are useful. With concrete action steps, templates and deadline tips you can avoid disputes and, if necessary, act with legal certainty. The language stays simple so every tenant in Germany can understand the next steps.

Organizing a shared kitchen fairly

Before conflicts arise, clear rules should apply. Keep agreements in writing, document defects and communicate openly with the other tenants and the landlord. If costs arise for cleaning, consumption or repairs, clarify whether these can be billed via operating costs or count as special charges — the Operating Costs Ordinance provides guidance.^[4]

Practical rules and examples

• Agree regular cleaning times and create a rotating schedule.
• Share consumption costs (e.g. electricity, gas) transparently or use separate meters.
• Document joint purchases (e.g. cleaning supplies) in writing and keep receipts.
• Set rules for food storage and waste separation.

If something breaks or the kitchen is unusable

In case of damage or defects, the landlord is primarily obliged to maintain the apartment in a contractual condition (§ 535 BGB). Report defects in writing first and set a reasonable deadline for repair. If nothing happens within this deadline, under certain conditions you can reduce the rent or arrange a repair yourself and deduct costs. Document all steps and keep invoices.

Forms and templates

Useful official templates or guidance can be found at federal authorities; for termination or formal letters, templates from the Ministry of Justice can be helpful.^[3] Include date, specific defect description, deadline and your signature in letters.

Conflict resolution and court steps

If talks and written requests do not help, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for rental disputes such as rent reduction, termination or eviction suits.^[2] Generally, proceedings follow these steps: filing a complaint/claim, written exchange, oral hearing and decision. Check all evidence, photos and witness statements carefully before court dates.

FAQ

Who pays for repairs in the shared kitchen?

In principle, the landlord is responsible for maintenance; operating cost deductions are possible if the costs are contractually defined as apportionable.

Can I reduce the rent if the kitchen is unusable?

Yes, rent reduction is possible for significant impairments if the defect was reported to the landlord and a deadline for remedy was set.

How-To

1. Step 1: Report the defect in writing and set a deadline (date and precise description).
2. Step 2: Collect evidence (photos, receipts, chats) as proof of the condition.
3. Step 3: Seek an amicable agreement; prepare a written arrangement on cleaning and cost sharing.
4. Step 4: If necessary, initiate formal steps and possibly file a claim at the local court.
5. Step 5: Present evidence in proceedings and observe deadlines.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – official legal texts
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Amtsgericht und Gerichtsorganisation — justiz.de
3. [3] Muster und Hinweise des BMJ — Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz
4. [4] Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV) — Gesetze im Internet