Tenant Checklist: Mail & Parcel Delivery in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, missing or faulty mail and parcel delivery can quickly lead to missed deadlines, damaged items, or disadvantages with official notifications. This checklist clearly explains your rights and obligations, outlines typical disputes, and lists concrete steps for documenting issues, using official forms, and proceeding in court. It is aimed at tenants who want to resolve problems with deliveries, undeliverable items, or parcel acceptance by third parties. You will also learn when to notify your landlord in writing, which deadlines to observe, and how to prepare a claim at the local court.

Why check?

Delivery errors affect more than convenience; they can jeopardize deadlines and have legal consequences. Documentation helps substantiate claims and enforce them against the landlord or the service provider.

Tenant rights and obligations

The landlord has duties under the German Civil Code (BGB) to ensure access to mailboxes and delivery points; tenants must report access problems and document damages^[1]. Civil litigation and eviction suits follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2], and key precedents may be consulted from the Federal Court of Justice (BGH)^[3].

Practical checklist: mail and parcel delivery

• Immediately secure photos of damaged parcels and the condition of the access area.
• Record date, time, delivery company and delivery proof.
• Give the landlord and carrier a reasonable deadline to resolve the issue (e.g. 14 days).
• Send written requests by registered mail or verifiable email.
• Contact the carrier with the tracking number and documentation.
• Consider filing a claim at the local court or a payment order if problems recur.

FAQ

Who is responsible when parcels are not delivered?

Generally the carrier is responsible; the landlord may share liability for structural obstacles. Check agreements on drop-off and storage.

Can I reduce rent if the mailbox or parcel locker is defective?

A rent reduction may be possible if usability is impaired; document the extent and duration of the defect.

What deadlines apply before filing a claim?

Set written deadlines and, if necessary, use the payment order procedure or file a claim at the local court after the deadline expires.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, messages, delivery confirmations.
2. Set a deadline for the landlord and carrier (e.g. 14 days).
3. Use official forms or templates for letters to the landlord or court.
4. File a claim at the competent local court if necessary.
5. Prepare files and evidence for the hearing.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)