Tenant Checklist: Verify Claims in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you often face questions about tenant rights, claims and deadlines. This guide helps you systematically verify claims: which documents are needed, which deadlines apply and which official forms you can use. It explains when rent reduction or compensation is possible, how to report defects and which steps make sense before filing a lawsuit. The language is simple and practical, with examples from large cities so you can make decisions confidently or prepare documents for the local court. Use the advice to meet deadlines, draft formal letters correctly and collect evidence in an organized way. If needed, you will find pointers to official bodies and forms.
What tenants should check
First check whether your claim for repair, rent reduction or compensation is covered by tenancy law (see §§ 535–580a BGB)[1]. Document defects, deadlines and your communication in writing. Before considering court proceedings, clarify formalities, collect evidence and find out about the competent local court and possible appellate instances.
- Forms (form): Gather lease, utility bills and termination letters as PDFs or paper files.
- Deadlines (deadline): Note deadlines for defect notices, rent reduction and filing a lawsuit so you do not lose rights.
- Repairs (repair): Report defects in writing with a deadline to the landlord and request remediation.
- Evidence (evidence): Photos, dates, times and witness statements increase your chances of success.
Forms and official steps
Use official forms when available. Examples and responsibilities are often regulated federally, concrete applications are usually handled by the municipal housing allowance office or the local court. In case of enforcement or eviction suits, procedural rules of the ZPO[2] and the local enforcement courts apply.
- Application for housing allowance (application): Submit an application to the local housing allowance office if your income may qualify you.
- Payment order application (monetary claim): If tenants need to enforce claims, a payment order procedure can be initiated.
- Termination letter (template): If you need to terminate a tenancy, use a formally correct termination letter and submit it with proof of delivery.
If unsure, ask the local court about procedures or get initial legal information; important procedural rules are in the ZPO[2]. Social law rules on housing promotion are in the WoFG[3].
Before a lawsuit: practical checklist
Before filing a lawsuit, check these items systematically. The following steps help prepare the proceedings and avoid unnecessary delays.
- Documentation: Compile photos, emails and receipts and create a timeline.
- Correspondence: Send defect notices by registered mail or by email with read receipt.
- Jurisdiction (court): Check which local court is competent and which documents are required there.
- Seek help: Contact local advisory centers or the courts legal aid office for form guidance.
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?
- Yes, in case of a significant reduction in living quality a rent reduction may be possible; document the extent and duration of the outage and give the landlord a reasonable deadline to fix it.
- How much time do I have to act against a termination?
- Check the notice period in the letter; in case of an extraordinary termination special deadlines apply and immediate action is advisable because court steps are time-critical.
- Who is responsible for an eviction lawsuit?
- Eviction suits are heard at the local court; higher instances are the regional courts or the Federal Court of Justice for fundamental legal questions[4].
How-To
- Gather all relevant documents: lease, reports, photos and payment receipts.
- Notify the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy.
- Note all deadlines and respond promptly to replies or demands.
- If necessary, submit documents to the competent local court or request pre-litigation assistance.
