Tenant Rights for Serviced Apartments in Germany

Serviced apartments are common in big cities, but tenants often ask: What rights do I have if management, utility statements or maintenance and termination periods are unclear? This text explains in plain language the key tenant rights in Germany for serviced apartments used long-term. You will learn which duties landlords have under the BGB, how to report defects, when rent reduction is possible and which steps are important in case of termination or eviction protection. Concrete checklists, action steps and pointers to the responsible authorities help you address problems calmly and securely.

What applies to serviced apartments?

Serviced apartments often differ by offering a broader service package and fast administrative changes. Legally, the rules of tenancy law in the BGB generally apply, especially duties for maintenance and ensuring habitability.^[1] For long-term use, the same principles apply as for conventional apartments: the landlord must remedy defects, provide heating and water, and cannot terminate arbitrarily.

Important steps for tenants

• If you have issues with rent or utility statements: review the statement in writing and request supporting documents.
• For repair or maintenance needs: report defects immediately in writing with a deadline for correction.
• For notice or termination questions: request a written explanation and check contract deadlines.
• For evidence collection: photograph damage, keep a defect log and save all communications.
• For court proceedings: tenancy disputes are usually handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); check filing options and deadlines.

If management does not respond, a rent reduction may be possible. The amount and duration depend on the severity of the impairment. Before a significant rent reduction, seek legal advice and document defects carefully.

FAQ

Can a landlord treat rent differently in a serviced apartment than in a normal flat?

As a rule, tenancy law provisions also apply to serviced apartments; differences arise from contractual agreements on services.

What should I do if important repairs are not carried out?

Send a written defect notice with a deadline, document the defect and consider rent reduction or claims for damages.

Which court is responsible for eviction suits or disputes?

The local courts (Amtsgerichte) are usually responsible in the first instance; higher courts are the regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice for matters of fundamental importance.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, dates and all messages to management.
2. Send a written defect notice with a clear deadline and description of the defect.
3. Wait for the deadline to pass; continue documenting communication and consequences.
4. If there is no response, consider starting court proceedings at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants in serviced apartments generally have the same protections as other tenants in Germany.
• Early documentation of defects makes rent reductions or lawsuits easier to pursue.
• If unsure, seek legal help and observe deadlines.

Help & Support

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB
• Justizportal: Information on Courts
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Informationen zu Gerichten – justiz.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de