Tenant Rent Reduction: Noise Log 2025 Germany

Tenants in Germany often face practical and legal questions when dealing with noise. A well-kept noise log is often the basis for an effective rent reduction and helps to clarify deadlines and the evidential situation. In this guide we explain in plain language how to document disturbing noise, which legal bases under the BGB apply, which forms and proofs authorities or courts expect, and how to meet deadlines. You will receive step-by-step instructions, sample wording for letters to the landlord and guidance on when the local court is responsible. This text is aimed at tenants without legal expertise and summarizes practical steps for 2025. Read on for concrete templates.

What is a noise log?

A noise log is a continuous document in which you enter date, time, duration, type of disturbance and possible witnesses. For legal assessment, § 536 BGB is often relevant because it governs the right to reduce rent in case of defects^[1]. A noise log alone does not guarantee success, but it improves the evidence against the landlord, property manager or court. In addition, use photos or short audio recordings if legally permissible.

How to keep a noise log

The log should be clear, chronological and complete. Use a printed or digital form and store copies securely.

• Date and time (time) of the disturbance exactly note.
• Record the duration of the noise disturbance in minutes or hours.
• Describe the type of noise (e.g. loud music, drilling, footsteps) and document possible witnesses (evidence).
• Secure photos or short audio recordings as evidence (evidence).
• Keep copies of all communications to the landlord or property manager (notice).
• If you plan a rent reduction, note your calculation for the amount (rent).

If possible, have neighbors or witnesses sign short written confirmations. Note that some courts are strict about completeness and plausibility.

Forms and evidence

There is no nationwide binding "noise log form", but many local courts accept structured tables or simple forms that include date, time, duration and description. For a lawsuit or formal notice, a sample complaint form or a simple written complaint may be necessary; information about court forms and procedures can be found on justice authority websites^[2]. General legal information and guidance pages are provided by the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection^[3].

FAQ

When can I reduce the rent?

If the habitability of the apartment is significantly impaired by noise, tenants can reduce the rent. Relevant factors are extent, duration and reasonableness of the disturbance.

Do I have to set a deadline for the landlord first?

In many cases you should notify the landlord in writing and request remedy; reducing rent without announcing it is possible but riskier.

How-To

1. Start immediately by logging the date and time of each disturbance.
2. Secure evidence: photos, audio recordings and witness statements.
3. Send a formal notice to the landlord with a deadline for remedy.
4. Calculate a reasonable reduction rate and document your calculation.
5. If no agreement is possible, prepare documents for the local court and file a complaint.
6. Seek support from local advisory centers or attorneys if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–536 — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Information on courts and procedures — justiz.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection — bmjv.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–536 — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung / Court information — justiz.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection — bmjv.de