Tenant Rights for Mail & Parcels in Germany
What to do about problems with mail and parcel delivery?
If letters or parcels regularly do not arrive, are damaged or missing, tenants have protection rights under tenancy law. [1] Start with careful documentation and inform the landlord in writing with a deadline.
Document time, date and photos immediately after the incident.
- Document defects (photo, document): collect photos, date, tracking number.
- Inform the landlord in writing (notice): set a deadline and prove receipt.
- Contact the delivery service (call): initiate tracking and complaint.
- Consider rent reduction (rent): assess legal consequences for significant impairment.
Practical steps help avoid escalation. First try direct clarification with the landlord and delivery service before considering legal action.
Early, factual communication prevents many escalations.
Which official forms are relevant?
There are no uniform nationwide template forms for every situation, but commonly used official procedures include the payment order (Mahnbescheid) and filing a claim at the local court. In many federal states you can find forms and guidance on the judicial portals of the states or at the Federal Ministry of Justice. Use official templates for legal applications and pay attention to deadlines.[2]
Keep copies of all letters and evidence securely.
How-To
- Create documentation: note photos, date, witnesses, tracking number.
- Inform the landlord in writing: describe defect, set deadline (notice).
- Wait and comply with the deadline: record the landlord's response.
- Legal steps: if necessary file a claim at the local court or consider procedures under the ZPO.[3]
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if parcels are consistently not delivered?
- A rent reduction is possible if the use of the rented dwelling is significantly impaired; evaluate each case and deadlines.
- Whom do I contact if the landlord does not respond?
- Contact the competent local court or the legal application office and use official forms and local advice services.
- Which deadlines are important?
- Deadlines for defect notification and filing claims vary; set a reasonable deadline for the landlord and document responses.
