Tenant Rights in Germany: Use Online Advice Safely

Many tenants in Germany seek advice online, from tenant associations or counseling centers; this guide shows practically how to use online advice safely, avoid common mistakes and recognise your rights under the BGB. I explain in plain language how to report defects, observe deadlines, adapt template letters and when a local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible. With concrete examples I show which proofs are helpful, how to collect evidence and how to document deadlines so you remain able to act without legal jargon. The aim is that after reading you know which official forms are useful and how to safely complete first steps yourself.

What you can do immediately

If a problem occurs, start with clear documentation: date, photos, written defect notifications and witness notes. Keep all rent payments and service charge statements ready; these documents are often decisive when you contact a tenant association or court.^[1]

• Collect photos, invoices and written notes as evidence.
• Inform the landlord in writing and request deadlines for remedy.
• Note all appointments and phone calls with date and time.

If the landlord does not respond, check your options: rent reduction, carrying out repairs yourself or contacting a counseling centre. Observe the statutory duties under the BGB and document every action.

Templates and official forms

Use template letters only as a guide: adapt names, dates and specific defects. For termination or extraordinary steps you should seek legal advice or use a tenant association template to ensure wording is correct. Keep proof of dispatch (for example registered mail).

FAQ

What can I do if the heating fails?

Contact the landlord in writing, document temperature and duration, demand prompt repair and consider a rent reduction under the rules of the BGB.^[1]

When can I reduce the rent?

For significant impairments you may reduce the rent; the amount depends on the extent of the defect and relevant case law. Collect evidence and consult a counseling centre before changing payments.^[1]

How does an eviction lawsuit proceed?

An eviction lawsuit is handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); proceedings follow the ZPO, and deadlines for service and objection are important. Seek advice early because court processes have binding consequences.^[2]

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, documents and witness statements to prove defects.
2. Send a formal defect notice by registered mail with a clear remedy deadline.
3. Check deadlines for responses and document dates in writing.
4. Contact your local tenant association or counseling center for sample letters and legal assessment.
5. If no agreement is reached, a lawsuit at the competent local court may follow.
6. Be aware of possible costs and deposit regulations.

Key Takeaways

• Good documentation often matters more than immediate legal action.
• Use templates as a basis and adapt details to your case.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decisions — bundesgerichtshof.de
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de