Blocking Period Checklist: Medical Notes for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a conversion of rental housing into condominium ownership or other uses can lead to a blocking period that regulates your termination and succession. This checklist explains in plain language which medical notes are recognized as evidence, how to meet deadlines, which forms are important and how to best document proofs. I describe practical steps for submitting medical certificates, employment statements and other evidence, as well as guidance on dealing with landlords and the court. The goal is to give you confidence so you can protect your rights as a tenant and avoid unnecessary eviction risks. The guide also helps with collecting documents and preparing for possible court proceedings.

What is the blocking period after conversion?

The blocking period often applies when housing is converted into ownership or a changed use and special protection is intended. During the blocking period special rules on termination and successor protection apply. The legal classification refers to provisions of the German Civil Code (e.g. §§ 535–580a BGB).^[1]

Which certificates count as evidence?

• Medical certificates that document a medical necessity or an unreasonable hardship.
• Employment statements that document a required place of residence.
• Social or official notices (e.g. WBS) that provide special protection.
• Timely dated certificates: date and issuing authority must be clearly visible.

How do I submit certificates?

Always submit evidence in writing, keep copies and obtain written confirmation of receipt from the landlord. State the purpose and period clearly, include contact details of the issuing body and keep proof of delivery.

• Address a letter or accompanying form to the landlord.
• Make and date copies of the certificates.
• Prove delivery (registered mail or handover with receipt).

Courts, deadlines and procedures

If a dispute arises, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and for national precedent matters to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2] Observe procedural deadlines from the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) and possible conciliation deadlines before court.

Forms and templates

Important templates include, for example, sample termination letters and the application for legal aid (PKH). In practice a clearly worded cover letter that names the certificates and the desired legal outcome is helpful. Use official templates and forms for orientation and attach your evidence.^[3]

FAQ

What does the blocking period mean for my lease?

The blocking period can limit the landlord's termination options under certain circumstances and protect existing tenancy from premature termination.

Which certificates does the court accept?

Courts generally accept medical certificates with clear diagnosis, date and signature as well as certified employment proofs or official social notices.

What if the landlord refuses to accept evidence?

Document the refusal in writing, seek advice and prepare a possible action at the local court.

How-To

1. Check deadlines: identify relevant blocking period and lawsuit deadlines.
2. Collect certificates: order medical, employment and official proofs chronologically.
3. Send documents: deliver letters with attachments by registered mail or with receipt.
4. If disputed: prepare a lawsuit at the competent local court with copies of all evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Offizielle Seite
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz (BMJV)