Tenant Advice Online in Germany – Targeted
As a tenant in a German big city, you may face problems like rent increases, eviction, or apartment defects. Online advice helps clarify related questions quickly, initiate first steps, and check whether a rent reduction, an objection, or a lawyer is necessary. This advice explains terms like "notice of defects" or "eviction lawsuit" in plain language, lists deadlines and shows which documents are useful. It is practical because many services review documents by email, offer template texts and point you to the responsible courts or authorities. This way you, as a tenant in Germany, keep an overview and can make informed decisions.
What is online tenant advice?
Online tenant advice is a telephone or digital consultation that explains tenant questions about the lease, rent, operating costs and the condition of the apartment. Advisors explain your rights, name legal bases and help with drafting letters. Relevant regulations can be found in the BGB, especially regarding landlord and tenant duties and rights [1].
When does online advice help?
- Check rent increases and understand deadlines.
- Assess termination letters and weigh options.
- Report defects and calculate rent reductions.
- Help with communication with the landlord.
Important forms and templates
Termination letter (template)
A termination letter should include name, address, contract date and reason for termination. Use templates as a basis, adjust dates and deadlines, and send the letter by registered mail or by email with read receipt. Official guidance on deadlines and formal requirements can be found at courts and authorities [4].
Application for debt collection (Mahnbescheid)
The Mahnverfahren is used to assert outstanding claims through the courts before applying for enforcement. As a tenant this procedure is less common than landlord claims, but it matters for deposit or service charge disputes. Forms and online services are available on the justice portal [4].
Certificate of eligibility for social housing (WBS)
The WBS is not a court form but a public-law regulation (WoFG) for subsidized housing. If you want to check eligibility for social housing, the law explains requirements and application obligations [1].
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I reduce the rent for mold?
- Yes, for significant defects like mold you can reduce the rent if the landlord has been informed and given time to remedy. Keep photos and defect notices as evidence.
- What to do with an unlawful termination?
- Check the notice period and reasons, file an objection if appropriate, and seek legal advice. Rental disputes are often heard at the local court; appeals may reach the higher regional court and the Federal Court of Justice [3].
- How do I set a deadline to fix defects?
- Send the landlord a formal defect notice with a deadline (e.g. 14 days) to remedy, document the deadline and response, and contact a counseling center if needed.
How-To
- Collect evidence: photos, emails, lease and utility bills.
- Describe the problem clearly and name a desired deadline for remedy.
- Use an online consultation to have a template letter reviewed.
- Send the defect notice by registered mail or email with read receipt.
- If there is no response, seek legal advice and check local court options.
Key procedural notes
In court procedures, deadlines from the Code of Civil Procedure apply; to avoid lawsuits or eviction, act promptly. An initial consultation can clarify whether an out-of-court settlement is possible or court steps are necessary [2].
Help and Support
- BGB §535: Duties of the landlord
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO): Rules for court actions
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH): Decisions and precedents
