Tenant Guide: Internet in Shared Housing, Germany

As a tenant in Germany you often face questions about internet use in shared housing: who is responsible for the router and data protection, what rights do you have in case of poor service or unlawful monitoring, and how to use shared networks safely? This practical guide explains your rights under the BGB^[1], necessary steps for problems with the landlord, and practical tips for privacy-compliant WLAN setup in special housing forms like dormitories. You get concrete actions, guidance on official forms and instructions on how to document, secure evidence and, if necessary, prepare a lawsuit at the local court (Amtsgericht)^[2]. The goal is to help you assess technical and legal questions confidently and act with assurance.

Rights and Duties

Landlords are obliged under general tenancy law to maintain the rental property in a contractual condition. Internet provisioning depends on the rental agreement: some landlords provide a shared connection, others allow private contracts. For outages or interruptions tenants can issue a defect notice and potentially claim a rent reduction. Procedural questions follow the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO)^[3].

Privacy and Technology

Operating WLAN in shared housing requires attention to privacy and network security. Use encrypted connections (WPA2/WPA3), strong passwords and separate guest networks when multiple people use the network. Landlords must not monitor personal data of users without consent or log content access. If in doubt, send a written request to the landlord with a deadline.

Practical Steps for Problems

• Send a written defect notice to the landlord (notice): specify deadline and exact fault description.
• Document outages: screenshots, speed tests, date/time and affected devices (evidence).
• Contact the administration or provider and set deadlines; communicate in writing and save responses (call).
• Check claims for rent reduction or reimbursement and discuss possible steps with advice centers (rent).

Forms and Templates

Important forms tenants often need:

• Termination letter (sample) for the tenancy: include date, names, contract number and reason if necessary; use templates as orientation and add your details. ^[4]
• Defect notice / request for remedy: describe the issue precisely, set a reasonable deadline and state the actions you will take if not remedied (e.g. rent reduction).
• Lawsuit forms for the local court: for eviction claims or civil claims use the court's complaint forms and attach evidence.

FAQ

Can the landlord restrict internet access in shared housing?

It depends on the lease. If internet is explicitly part of the tenancy, unilateral restriction without good cause is not permitted. Otherwise agreements and house rules govern access.

Who is liable for internet connection failures?

Liability depends on the contract: if the landlord provides the connection, the landlord is usually responsible; for private contracts the user or the provider is liable.

How and when can I claim a rent reduction because of internet problems?

After an unsuccessful defect notice and expiry of a deadline, a rent reduction may be possible. Carefully document outages and scope before calculating the reduction amount.

How-To

1. Write: Draft a defect notice with date, description of the issue and a requested deadline.
2. Collect evidence: include speed tests, screenshots and communication logs.
3. Inform provider and administration: request timely remediation and confirm all contacts in writing.
4. Allow the deadline to pass: if the landlord does not act, consider rent reduction or hiring an expert.
5. Court action: if necessary, file suit at the competent local court and submit all evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Clear documentation is essential for success in disputes.
• Privacy and secure network configuration protect your devices and rights.
• Always keep written records of communications with landlord and provider.

Help and Support

• Federal Network Agency – information on telecommunications
• Federal Commissioner for Data Protection and Freedom of Information (BfDI)
• Laws in the Internet – federal law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Amtsgerichte und Zuständigkeiten — justiz.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Court forms and templates (complaints, addresses, forms) — justiz.de/formulare