Tenant Termination in Germany: Forms & Deadlines

As a tenant in Germany, you often face formal hurdles when you want to terminate a lease properly. This guide explains in plain language which documents are necessary, which deadlines apply and how to secure evidence so that your termination is legally effective — even without a lawyer. You will receive practical examples for termination letters, guidance on delivery and tips for queries with the landlord. I also show how official laws and courts regulate the process, which forms are relevant and when a local court (Amtsgericht) may have jurisdiction.^[2] The aim is to give you confidence, keep deadlines and avoid typical mistakes. Read template forms carefully and document handover appointments in writing. At the end you will find links to official sources and sample letters.

Which documents do you need?

Before you terminate, collect all documents that prove your claims and deadlines. Legal foundations can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a.^[1]

• Termination letter (form): A signed letter with name, address, lease number, termination date and signature; add a short reason if desired.
• Rental agreement (document): Copy of the current lease to check contract clauses, notice periods and special agreements.
• Payment receipts (rent): Bank statements, receipts or other evidence showing rent payments, deposit or adjustments.
• Handover protocol (record): Protocol at move-out or handover with meter readings and condition of rooms.
• Correspondence with the landlord (notice): Emails, letters or messages that document agreements or queries.

Deadlines and delivery

For ordinary terminations, statutory notice periods apply depending on the length of tenancy and contract type. The notice period begins when your declaration reaches the landlord; delivery is decisive for evidence. Use registered mail with return receipt where possible or personal handover with signature and note date and time.

• Notice periods (deadline): Ordinary notice periods are usually three months but may differ by contract or law.
• Receipt of notice (calendar-event): The termination is effective only when the landlord has received it; record the receipt in writing.
• Registered mail and proof of delivery (form): Registered mail with return receipt or personal handover with signature are secure proofs.

FAQ

Do I need an official termination form?

No. There is no prescribed official form for ordinary termination; a clearly worded, signed letter usually suffices.

How can I securely prove delivery of the termination?

The safest methods are registered mail with return receipt or personal handover with the landlord's signature.

What if the landlord does not respond or objects?

Document every step, set a deadline for clarification if necessary and contact the competent local court or seek legal advice; judicial decisions may go up to the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

How-To

1. Gather documents (document): Collect lease, payment records and correspondence.
2. Write the termination (form): Prepare a signed termination letter including contract details.
3. Ensure delivery (deliver): Send by registered mail with return receipt or deliver personally with signature.
4. Keep records (evidence): Store copies, receipts and photos securely.

Key takeaways

• Prepare a clear, signed termination letter and keep a copy.
• Use registered mail or personal delivery to prove receipt.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
• [2] Jurisdiction of local courts — Justice Portal of the Federal Government and the States
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law

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1. [1] BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Jurisdiction of local courts — Justice Portal of the Federal Government and the States
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law