Tenant Association for WG Tenants in Germany

As a flatshare tenant in a German big city you often face questions about rent increases, repairs or eviction. This practical guide shows how to use the tenant association effectively: advice, template letters, legal review and assistance in negotiations with the landlord. I explain clearly which documents help, which deadlines apply and how proceedings at the local court can proceed. You get concrete steps for defect notices, rent reduction and conduct in case of eviction threats. The goal is that you assert your rights in Germany more confidently and quickly find suitable help if needed. Read the FAQ and the step-by-step guide below for sample texts and links to official authorities.

What the Tenant Association Does

A tenant association offers members first-line telephone advice, review of correspondence, template letters and often legal protection in tenancy disputes. The association explains the legal position under the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1], helps with deadlines and informs whether a rent reduction or a warning is appropriate.

• Advice on rent increases and termination
• Preparation of template letters and reviews
• Support in negotiations with the landlord
• Assistance or referral for court proceedings

Important Forms and Templates

Important official forms are not always centrally available; many tenant associations provide checked templates. Typical forms and templates you should know:

• Termination letter (template) from the sender: Used when you want to terminate the tenancy properly; a template shows correct details (name, address, termination date) and legal notes.
• Complaint form for the local court: If landlord or tenant needs a court decision (e.g. eviction claim), the lawsuit must be filed according to the rules of civil procedure.^[2]
• Defect notice (written with deadline): Describe defect, time, photos, deadline for remedy and possible rent reduction; a concrete example is: "Please remedy the mold in room 2 by DD.MM.YYYY, otherwise I will reduce the rent by X%."

If cases go to court, the competent instance is primarily the local court; for questions about deadlines and procedure consult the Civil Procedure Code.^[2]

FAQ

How quickly can the tenant association help?

Many associations offer telephone first advice within days; concrete support (letters, review) can take days to weeks depending on workload.

What does membership cost?

Membership fees vary regionally; often there are annual fees that include legal protection for typical tenancy cases. Check with your local tenant association.

Can the tenant association assist with an eviction claim?

Yes: The association reviews documents, provides action recommendations and may represent or refer to specialized lawyers depending on its statute.

How-To

1. Collect documents: tenancy agreement, photos, correspondence and payment receipts.
2. Contact the tenant association: briefly describe the problem and send the documents.
3. Send a written defect notice with a deadline to the landlord.
4. Use association templates for rent reduction or objection and document every response.
5. If legal steps are needed: association or lawyer files the claim at the local court and supports the process.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 ff. (Tenancy law)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – procedural rules (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – information and decisions (bundesgerichtshof.de)