Ban Period after Conversion: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of what happens after a conversion from rental to condominium — especially whether a ban period applies and how long landlords may evict or otherwise use the apartment. This guide explains in clear language what rights tenants have, which deadlines matter and how you can argue with documented evidence and a template letter. It describes practical steps to check the legal basis under the BGB^[1], to collect evidence and to file objections or litigation, and which courts are competent so that you can best protect your apartment in Germany.

What is the ban period after conversion?

The ban period refers to a time during which certain terminations or conversion consequences are restricted. For tenants this means: you cannot be immediately displaced after a conversion without reviewing deadlines, formal requirements and social protections. Relevant legal provisions are found in the BGB and the ZPO; in practice the local court (Amtsgericht) is often the competent authority^[1][2].

What rights do tenants have?

• File objections (notice): You can formally object to a termination or conversion.
• Collect evidence (evidence): Photos, rental contracts, payment records and correspondence strengthen your position.
• Observe deadlines (deadline): Many steps are time-bound; act promptly.
• Judicial clarification (court): If negotiations fail, the local court often decides eviction cases.

How to argue with a template letter?

A template letter helps present your objections clearly and coherently. In the letter state precisely: your rental contract details, reasons against the termination or conversion, supporting evidence and a clear deadline by which the landlord should respond. Refer to relevant sections of the BGB and indicate that you will consider legal steps if there is no response.

A template should always reflect your situation; add personal data and documents. If unsure, use a counseling service or jurisprudence for orientation^[3].

Common procedural steps

• Check deadlines (deadline): Identify delivery dates and deadlines for objections or litigation.
• Document (evidence): Make copies of the contract, bank statements and photos.
• Prepare a template letter (notice): Describe your demands and attach evidence.
• File in court if necessary (court): Prepare a statement for the local court regarding eviction actions.

FAQ

When does the ban period after conversion begin?

The ban period generally begins with delivery of the conversion notice or the date of formal measures of the change of owner; specific periods may vary regionally. Check deadlines immediately and seek legal advice.

Can I sue immediately against a termination?

You can file a lawsuit, but you should first file an objection and gather evidence. Emergency proceedings are only appropriate in limited exceptional cases.

Which documents are decisive?

Rental contract, handover protocol, payment records, correspondence with the landlord and any notices about conversion or sale are central.

How-To

1. Check deadlines (deadline): Record delivery dates and deadlines for objection or lawsuit.
2. Collect evidence (evidence): Make copies of contract, bank statements and photos.
3. Create a template letter (notice): State your concern, attach evidence and set a response deadline.
4. File a lawsuit if needed (court): The local court handles eviction claims; seek advice beforehand.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of Justice – information on tenancy law and state services.
• Gesetze im Internet – full text of the BGB and relevant sections for tenancy issues.
• Federal Court of Justice – case law and decisions on tenancy and conversion.

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)