Tenant Rights in Germany: Meter Readings & Enforcement

Tenants in Germany often face practical questions during interim meter readings: who schedules the appointment, which meter values count, and how do you secure evidence if the landlord later claims different readings? This article explains step by step how to prepare interim meter readings securely, which documents and forms are important, and which authorities or courts can assist in a dispute. Read clear action steps, concrete examples for drafting forms, and guidance on how to preserve evidence so it is admissible in the local court.

Before the interim meter reading

Prepare the appointment and documents so meter values are not disputed later.

• Schedule and confirm the appointment with the landlord or metering company in good time.
• Photograph meter readings with date and time and save them.
• Have the rental agreement, previous reading records, and utility statements ready.
• If access is disputed, notify in writing about access times and request confirmation.

Documentation and preserving evidence

Complete documentation increases your chances in a later dispute with the landlord or in court.

• Take photos of the meter showing a clear display and timestamp.
• Fill out a reading protocol: date, time, meter number, name of the person reading.
• Name witnesses or ask neighbors for a short written confirmation if available.

Forms, deadlines and court routes

Which legal bases and forms are important depends on the issue: clarification, reminder, or lawsuit. Relevant provisions are in the German Civil Code and the Code of Civil Procedure.^[1][2]

• Send a reminder or request for clarification in writing and document receipt.
• Observe deadlines: legal steps often require quick responses in court.
• If necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent local court; the local court decides rental disputes.^[4]

If the landlord does not cooperate

If the landlord persists with differing meter readings or refuses to provide documents, proceed in a structured manner.

• Send a formal request for clarification with a deadline and keep proof of sending.
• Attach your evidence photos and protocols to the letter or refer to them.
• If clarification fails: assess costs and claims at the local court and consider filing suit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays if the interim meter reading shows incorrect values?

In principle: the party that provides proof bears the burden of proof; check reading records and statements carefully and secure evidence.^[1]

Can I refuse an interim meter reading?

You may not refuse an appointment without reason; if you have justified privacy concerns or access obstacles, propose alternative dates in writing.

Whom should I contact in case of a dispute?

In many cases mediation helps; otherwise the competent local court is the correct contact point.^[4]

How-To

1. Arrange and confirm the appointment with the landlord or metering company in writing.
2. On site, photograph the meter, complete the protocol, and make copies.
3. Within one week, notify the landlord in writing of any discrepancies and request clarification.
4. If clarification is not achieved, check deadlines and, if necessary, file suit at the local court.^[2]

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Laws online (BGB, ZPO, HeizKV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions