Tenant Termination Letters in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, you may sometimes face the task of ending a regular tenancy — for example because of a job change, moving in together, or due to unacceptable living conditions. This practice-oriented guide explains step by step how to draft a legally effective ordinary termination, which mandatory details belong in the letter, which deadlines must be observed, and how to ensure the termination is properly delivered. We provide practical sample texts, notes on finding a replacement tenant and on the condition of the apartment at move-out, as well as tips for handling the security deposit and handover protocol. The aim is to reduce uncertainty and give you clear, verifiable actions for deadlines, documentation and possible legal questions in Germany. If necessary, we also show when legal advice or clarification at the local court is advisable.

When can a tenant give ordinary notice?

As a tenant you can usually give ordinary notice if your lease is open-ended or if there is a contractual termination option. The legal basis is found in the German Civil Code (BGB), in particular the provisions on tenancy and notice periods^[1]. A three-month notice period is common for residential tenancies unless the contract states otherwise.

What must be included in the termination letter?

The termination letter should be clear, complete and in writing. State clearly which contract you terminate and on what date the tenancy should end. Include your contact details and sign personally.

• Date and place of the letter (date | deadline)
• Tenant's full name and address
• Landlord's name and address
• Subject: "Termination of the tenancy agreement" and the apartment address (notice | form)
• Notice period / contract end date (deadline)
• Note on handover and key return and request for confirmation of receipt (document | evidence)
• Tenant's handwritten signature

Sample template (simple)

Here is a simple example you can adapt:

Max Mustermann
Musterstraße 1
12345 Musterstadt

Landlord
Landlord GmbH
Vermieterstraße 2
12345 Musterstadt

Place, Date

Subject: Termination of the tenancy agreement for the apartment Musterstraße 1, 12345 Musterstadt

Dear Sir or Madam, I hereby terminate the tenancy agreement for the above apartment by ordinary notice effective at the earliest possible date / on [insert date]. Please confirm receipt of this termination and the contract end date in writing.

Sincerely

Signature

Delivery, deadlines and replacement tenants

The termination must reach the landlord. Practically, registered mail with return receipt or personal delivery against a receipt are proven methods. Observe the contractual or statutory notice period; early release from the contract is only possible with the landlord's consent or by arrangement with a replacement tenant.

• Check delivery (notice | form)
• Arrange a replacement tenant or agree on handover (move-out | vacate)
• Contact for questions and appointments

What to do in case of disputes or questions?

Document defects, the condition at handover and all written agreements. Seeking advice can be sensible in disputes; tenancy decisions are made by local courts, and the Federal Court of Justice decides on fundamental legal questions^[2]. In court proceedings the local court (Amtsgericht) is generally responsible, for example for eviction lawsuits or claims for return of the deposit^[3].

FAQ

How long is the statutory notice period for tenants?

The statutory notice period for tenants is usually three months unless the contract states otherwise.^[1]

Does the termination have to be in writing?

Yes, the termination must be written and personally signed. Termination by e-mail is not sufficient without explicit contractual agreement.

Can I propose a replacement tenant to leave earlier?

Yes, proposing a suitable replacement tenant is possible, but landlord approval is required.

How-To

1. Check your notice periods and note the earliest possible contract end date (deadline).
2. Draft the termination in writing including all mandatory information (notice | form).
3. Send the termination by registered mail or deliver it in person against confirmation.
4. Arrange the handover, cleaning and key return; create a handover protocol.
5. Keep copies of all documents and receipts (document | evidence).

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de
• Justice portal of the federal and state governments - justiz.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Justizportal des Bundes und der Länder - justiz.de