Tenant Deadlines for BGH Rulings in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a BGH ruling can change deadlines and obligations at short notice. This article explains in plain language which documents you should collect, which deadlines apply to service and objections, and which official forms are needed. I describe step by step how to secure evidence, meet deadlines and, if necessary, contact the competent local court or higher instances such as the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice. Examples show how a timely registered letter, handover protocol or rent reduction letter can be used in practice. I list official forms and link to government pages. If in doubt, tenant associations and advisory centres are a helpful contact.

Which documents you should collect

• Lease agreement (copy, Mietvertrag)
• Termination letter / sample form (BMJV) ^[3]
• Handover protocol & photos (photo, evidence)
• Payment receipts, deposit, service charge statements (payment, deposit)
• Correspondence with landlord (registered letter, email, mail)

Important deadlines and dates

For tenancy claims, the German Civil Code (BGB) and the procedural rules of the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) are the main references. Read especially the provisions on duties, termination and rent reduction in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] Submit objections and actions within the stated deadlines or you will often lose rights.

• Deadline for responding to service (usually 2 weeks, within)
• Objection to statements of account (check specific rules, calendar)
• File objections or claims formally (form, submit)

Official forms and templates

Some forms and sample letters are useful:

• Termination letter (BMJV sample) — Use: to give notice; example: date, address, signature.
• Objection letter against service charge statement — Use: state deadline and reasons.
• Application forms for the local court (e.g. eviction claim) — Use: file for court proceedings.

When using a template: adapt names, dates and facts, send by registered mail and keep the dispatch receipts.

Courts and jurisdiction

Many tenancy disputes are first handled by the local court (Amtsgericht). Appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht), and fundamental rulings may be decided by the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2] BGH rulings often create new legal standards; check whether a recent decision affects your situation.

How to document and submit papers

Good documentation increases your chances in proceedings. Create a file and note dates, content of conversations and deadlines.

• Create a complete written record (document, record)
• Send important letters by registered mail (form, mail)
• Keep copies both digitally and physically (move-out, move-in)

FAQ

Which documents do I need for a BGH ruling?

You need a copy of the lease, payment receipts, handover protocols, correspondence and possibly photos as evidence.

When must I file an objection?

Objections should be filed within the deadline stated on the document; otherwise you risk forfeiture.

Which court handles an eviction claim?

Eviction claims are filed at the competent local court; the proceedings can be appealed to the regional court.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant documents and sort them chronologically.
2. Use official templates for termination or objection and adapt them.
3. Observe deadlines and set reminders.
4. File claims at the competent local court, with legal assistance if needed.
5. Seek support from tenant associations or advisory centres if unsure.

Key Takeaways

• Observe statutory deadlines to preserve your rights.
• Complete evidence and clear dates support your case.

Help and Support

• BMJV — Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Gesetze im Internet (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Federal Court of Justice (bundesgerichtshof.de)

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Federal Court of Justice — bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV) — bmjv.de