Avoid Tenant Mistakes in Dorms in Germany

As a tenant in a dormitory in Germany, you will often encounter house rules that seem harmless at first glance but can have legal consequences. Especially students and new tenants make typical mistakes: unclear agreements on visiting times, missing documentation of defects, ill-considered key rules or wrong reactions to warnings. This text explains clearly which mistakes you should avoid, how tenancy law roughly works and which steps make sense in conflicts. You will receive practical tips on documenting defects, responding to landlord letters and concrete guidance on when legal counsel or the local court becomes responsible. This way you can better protect your rights and resolve disputes more quickly.

What matters in dormitory house rules?

The house rules usually regulate quiet hours, cleaning and access, but cannot unilaterally override rights from the lease; landlord duties and tenant rights also arise from statutory law.^[1]

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

• Unclear visiting times (time) without a fixed agreement lead to conflicts; clarify visiting rules in writing with the property management.
• Payment errors (rent) such as wrong reference or late transfers are avoided with standing orders and receipts.
• Unreported or poorly documented defects (repair) weaken your position for rent reduction; take photos and record date and time.
• Ignoring warnings (notice) is risky; reply in writing and keep copies.
• Lack of evidence in disputes (record): log noise complaints, photos, conversations and emails.
• Unclear key or access rules (entry) can affect data protection and privacy; request clear rules on room use.
• Inappropriate reaction to eviction threats (eviction) can cause legal disadvantages; check deadlines and legal grounds.^[2]
• Ignoring safety regulations (safety) endangers all residents; report defects that affect fire safety or entrances.

What to do about defects or disputes?

Proceed in a structured way: document, report, set a deadline and consider legal steps if necessary. Rights such as rent reduction or compensation are based on statutory rules in the BGB; procedural rules for court cases are in the ZPO.^[1][2]

• Document: photos, date, witnesses and a defect list.
• Report defects: in writing to the landlord or property manager with a concrete deadline.
• Set a repair deadline: specify a reasonable period for remedy.
• Consider rent reduction: for substantial defects a reasonable reduction may be justified; document extent and duration.
• Seek help: advisory centers, legal protection or legal aid can assist.

How-To

1. Document the defect immediately with photos and a date note.
2. Notify the landlord in writing and request remedy with a deadline.
3. Wait for the set deadline and check the landlord's response.
4. Obtain legal advice or apply for legal aid if necessary.
5. Only if no solution is possible, consider court action at the competent local court.^[2]

FAQ

Can house rules set visiting times?

Yes, house rules can include visitor regulations, but they must not conflict with mandatory law or individual lease rights.

When can I reduce rent?

If the usability of the apartment is substantially restricted, rent reduction may apply; document extent, duration and report the defect in writing.

Who handles an eviction dispute?

Eviction lawsuits are usually handled in first instance by the local court; procedural rules are set out in the ZPO.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Tenancy law
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Procedure
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Case law
• Federal Service Portal – Forms and guidance (e.g. legal aid)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Rules on claims and eviction
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Key judgments and decisions