Tenant Rights: Conversion Waiting Period in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a conversion from rental to condominium can cause uncertainty, especially because of the 2025 waiting period. This article clearly explains which documents you should collect, how long waiting periods apply, which evidence is accepted in court and which official forms may be used. I describe practical steps to document defects, correspondence with the landlord and how to prepare for a claim at the local court. I also explain when deadlines must be observed and how to file an objection. The goal is to make you as a tenant able to act, protect your rights and name the relevant official contact points in Germany. Read on for concrete action steps.

What does the waiting period after conversion mean?

The waiting period refers to a time during which certain measures related to the conversion of rental apartments into owner-occupied units can have special consequences for tenants. Whether and how a waiting period applies depends on the specific conversion, municipal regulations and civil law provisions. Check the legal basis in the relevant provisions of the BGB, in particular §§ 535 et seq., and seek legal advice if you face eviction or termination.^[1]

Which documents are important?

Collect documents early that document your tenancy, payments and the condition of the apartment. Pay attention to dates, signatures and completeness.

• Tenancy agreement and amendments (rent agreement)
• Rent payments, bank statements and receipts (rent payments)
• Correspondence with the landlord, terminations and offers (notice)
• Photos, videos and defect logs (evidence)
• Deadline evidence: proof of receipt of letters and delivery dates (deadline)

How do I submit evidence to the local court?

If you need to file a claim or application with the local court, submit the collected documents in an ordered manner. Number documents, add a short content summary and provide copies rather than originals unless requested. Guidance on service and procedure can be found in the Code of Civil Procedure and on the judicial portals.^[2]

What to do before an eviction claim?

• Contact legal advice or tenant support organizations early (help)
• Check deadlines immediately and note relevant dates (deadline)
• File timely objections or claim documents (form)
• Secure evidence: photos, witnesses, payment records (evidence)

FAQ

What is a waiting period?

A waiting period is a time-limited protection, review or suspension period in connection with conversions; its scope depends on the law and the specific procedure.

Which evidence does the court accept?

Courts accept written tenancy agreements, payment receipts, documented correspondence, photos and witness statements; all evidence should be ordered chronologically and be verifiable.

When do I have to go to the local court?

As soon as you receive a termination or eviction threat, you should promptly consider legal steps; the competent local court is responsible for claims and applications.^[3]

How-To

1. Note all deadlines and the date you received any termination (within 14 days).
2. Collect tenancy agreement, payment records and photos of the apartment (evidence).
3. Create a short content summary with a list of documents (form).
4. Contact legal advice or the local tenant advisory service early (help).
5. Submit required documents to the competent local court and keep proof of service (court).
6. Keep copies of all submissions and log conversations with the landlord (safety).

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB and ZPO)
• Judicial portals of the Länder (court forms and guidance)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (information and publications)

---

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof)