Tenant Checklist: Window Replacement Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, you should check your rights, deadlines and possible costs before a planned window replacement. This guide explains in plain language when a landlord may modernize, which notification duties and deadlines apply, and how cost allocations or rent increases should be assessed. You will receive practical tips on documenting defects, how to respond to modernization notices and when a rent reduction may be appropriate. In addition, you will find sample letters, references to official forms and steps for going to the local court if an amicable solution is not possible. Read the checklist below, prepare documents and use the sample letters as templates for your communication.

What tenants should check before a window replacement

A landlord must announce modernizations and observe deadlines; the legal foundations are in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a

It is important to check whether the replacement actually constitutes a modernization within the meaning of tenancy law, whether the measure improves usability and whether costs can be passed on. Special notification periods and information obligations apply to cost-relevant modernizations.

Checklist for tenants

• Check the announced deadlines and dates carefully and note the date you received the notice.
• Request a written modernization notice specifying scope and expected duration.
• Document existing defects before start (photos, date, witnesses) so later damages can be evidenced.
• Clarify whether and to what extent the landlord intends to pass on costs to the rent.
• Check access and data protection rules when contractors enter the apartment.
• Note landlord contacts and arrange inspections if necessary.

Rights, tenant obligations and possible responses

As a tenant, you have the right to timely information and reasonable compensatory measures if the replacement significantly impairs your use. For procedural questions, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is relevant, especially if it leads to eviction proceedings or a trial.

Examples of sensible responses to the landlord:

• Formal request: Ask for a detailed list of works and the planned duration.
• Registered mail with photo protocol: Send a condition report by registered mail before start.
• Rent reduction notice: Indicate a possible rent reduction if usability is impaired.

Forms and sample letters (official guidance)

There is no uniform nationwide template for modernization notices, but for court steps you may need applications for legal advice aid or legal aid; procedures run via the competent local court or justice authorities.

If you use a sample letter, include date, specific works, contact person and photos as an attachment. An example:

• Sample letter to landlord: "Please provide a detailed list of the planned works, start/end dates, contact person and information on cost allocation."

When the local court becomes competent

Disputes about rent reduction, termination or eviction are usually heard in the local court; appeals go to the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

FAQ

When may the landlord replace windows?

The landlord may modernize if he observes the statutory notification periods and information duties; relevant regulations are in the BGB.

Can the landlord pass costs on to me?

Under certain conditions, modernization costs can be passed on proportionally; this depends on the type and scope of the measure.

What to do with significant impairments during the works?

Document the impairment, inform the landlord in writing and consider a rent reduction or claims for damages.

How-To

1. Check dates: Note the date of the announcement and calculate deadlines for objections or queries.
2. Create documentation: Photograph the condition before start and record defects in writing.
3. Establish contact: Ask for contacts and arrange inspections.
4. Send sample letter: Request details on duration, scope and cost allocation in writing.
5. Consider legal steps: If no agreement is possible, prepare documents for the local court and check legal aid options.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions and Info

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de