Tenant Rights for Shared Dorms in Germany

Many tenants live in a shared dorm and face questions about house rules, privacy and obligations toward the landlord or operator. This text explains in clear English which rights and duties tenants have in Germany, how house rules are classified and when rent reduction, repair claims or formal complaints are appropriate. The information helps you document steps, meet deadlines and, if necessary, find the responsible courts or authorities. Concrete tips, practical examples and official sources make it easier to act when conflicts arise with roommates, dorm administration or the landlord.

What applies in a shared dorm?

A house rule often regulates the use of common areas, quiet hours and visitor rules, but it must not conflict with mandatory provisions of tenancy law. Fundamental duties of landlord and tenant are regulated in the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1]. In particular, the landlord is obliged to maintain the apartment in a condition suitable for use.

House rules: What is permissible?

House rules may regulate details of living together but may not unreasonably limit tenants' core rights not agreed upon in the contract. For example, blanket visitor bans or a general ban on changing roommates are usually ineffective if they prevent contractual use of the apartment.

• Check whether the house rules were agreed in writing or introduced unilaterally afterwards.
• Record obligations such as cleaning common areas clearly and understandably.
• Object to unclear or excessive rules in writing and explain your position.

Rights for defects, noise and privacy

If defects such as mold or a faulty heating occur, report them immediately in writing with a deadline to the landlord. If the landlord fails to act, you may reduce the rent or carry out necessary repairs yourself and reclaim costs. In case of serious disturbances (persistent noise, ongoing harassment), document all incidents and consider legal action if necessary.

Conflict resolution and legal steps

For serious disputes, an initial clarifying conversation or involving the dorm administration is often helpful. If that does not help, a formal warning or complaint may be necessary. Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht) in the first instance; procedural rules are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2]. Decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be relevant for contract interpretation^[3].

FAQ

May the house rules strictly regulate visitors or quiet hours?

Yes, but the rules must not unreasonably restrict the tenant's contractual use of the premises; unclear or overly restrictive provisions can be invalid.

What can I do if roommates constantly make noise?

Document incidents in writing, inform the dorm administration and set a reasonable deadline for remedy; if the behavior continues, legal steps may follow.

Can repair costs be reclaimed from the landlord?

If the landlord refuses to remedy defects despite a deadline, you may under certain conditions claim costs back or reduce the rent.

How-To

1. Describe and document the problem in writing with dates and evidence (photos, logs).
2. Send a formal defect notice to the landlord and set a clear deadline for remedy.
3. If there is no response, consider legal options such as rent reduction or remedial action at the landlord's expense.
4. For escalating cases, prepare your documents for a lawsuit and seek legal advice.
5. If necessary, file a claim at the competent local court; observe the procedural rules of the ZPO.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• Bundesgerichtshof – Decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Decisions