Submetering & Wireless Reading: Tenant Rights Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you may face questions about reimbursement and how to properly object to measurement data for submetering and wireless reading. This practical guide explains in plain language what obligations landlords have, how service charge statements with consumption measurement work, and when you should check or contest bills. You will learn which evidence and deadlines matter, how to draft formal objections and which official authorities or courts are responsible in disputes. Examples show practical steps, including available sample forms from authorities. The goal is to give you clear actions and reliable wording as a tenant so you can enforce your rights effectively in Germany when measurements are incorrect or questionable.
What is submetering and wireless reading?
Submetering means measuring the consumption of individual apartments with additional meters; wireless reading transmits meter data by radio for automated billing. For heating costs, measurement is governed by the Heating Cost Ordinance, which sets rules for measurement and allocation[2]. Submetering can increase or decrease service charges; what matters is how the measurement data are included in the service charge statement and whether the devices function correctly.
Rights and obligations regarding billing
Landlords have disclosure obligations under tenancy law, and statements must be comprehensible; the relevant rules are in the BGB and other ordinances[1]. As a tenant, you can demand access to measured values, file formal objections and, if necessary, request reimbursement or corrections.
- Request inspection of records and meter data and demand copies.
- Submit written objections within reasonable deadlines and observe statutory time limits.
- Claim reimbursement for unjustified charges or have payments reviewed.
- Submit formal objections by letter or email with clear reasons.
- Collect evidence: photos, meter reading logs and email correspondence.
- In disputes: the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually the first instance; higher courts include the Landgericht and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).
How-To
The following steps help you systematically check and contest a faulty wireless reading or statement. If necessary, prepare your documents for legal enforcement.
- Review the bill and compare meter readings with your own records.
- Check deadlines: request records immediately and respond promptly to incorrect entries.
- Send a formal objection to the landlord with date, specific complaint and requested corrections; list supporting documents.
- Request reimbursement for overpaid amounts and document transfers and reminders.
- Seek help from official authorities or prepare documents for the local court if amicable settlement fails.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can the landlord introduce submetering or wireless reading without my consent?
- Often yes, if the measurement is permitted and the cost allocation complies with regulations; for structural changes or interventions in the apartment consent may be required. Check your lease agreements and the statutory provisions (Heating Cost Ordinance, Operating Costs Ordinance).
- How do I correctly object to a faulty bill?
- Send a written objection with specific reasons and evidence; request access to meter data and set a clear deadline for the landlord to respond.
- Which court is responsible if a dispute arises?
- In tenancy matters, the competent local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides; regional courts handle appeals and the Federal Court of Justice issues precedent-setting decisions.
Help and Support / Resources
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions on tenancy law and billing
- Gesetze im Internet: Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ) – information on courts and procedures
