Tenant Tips Germany: Dorm Rules Mistakes

Many students and families in Germany must deal with dormitory rules and their legal consequences. As a tenant or subtenant, it is important to know common mistakes — such as oral agreements without written proof, unauthorized subletting, or ignoring deadlines for defect notifications. This guide explains in clear language which rules apply, which steps help in conflicts and which official forms or courts are responsible^[1]. It provides practical templates and behavioural tips so you can avoid conflicts with the dorm management or the landlord. Read on for concrete action steps and sample texts.

Typical mistakes and how to avoid them

The following points are common pitfalls in student dorms. Understand the terms and act with documentation.

• No written confirmation of oral agreements leads to later evidence problems.
• Undocumented deposit agreements or incorrect utility billings cause disputes over amounts.
• Not reporting repairs or taking photos results in arguments about repair obligations.
• Deadlines for reporting defects or responding to a warning are often missed.
• Formal court steps are initiated too late, even though the local court is competent.

Concrete templates and forms (when to use)

There are standard letters for many steps. Use clear templates for:

• Defect notification to the landlord (date, defect, deadline, photos attached).
• Warning letter for repeated breaches of house rules with a deadline to remedy.
• Written clarification of deposit accounting with receipts and an itemised claim list.

Practical example: defect notification

Briefly describe: what is broken, since when the defect exists, what consequences it has for use and which deadline you set for repair (e.g. 14 days). Send the letter by registered mail or electronically with delivery confirmation and keep a receipt.

What to do if management does not respond?

If the landlord or dorm management does not respond, proceed step by step: document, send written reminders, set a deadline and consider legal steps. In many cases the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible for tenancy disputes^[2].

FAQ

Can I reduce rent because of noise?

Yes, a rent reduction may be possible for significant impairments; document the extent and duration of the noise and inform the management in writing first.

Can the dorm prohibit subletting?

Subletting is often regulated by the contract; without landlord consent subletting may be impermissible and could lead to termination.

Where to go in eviction disputes?

Eviction claims are heard by the competent local court; check deadlines and seek legal advice if necessary.

How-To

1. Document the facts with date, time, photos and witness statements.
2. Send a formal defect notification or warning by registered mail and set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days).
3. Talk to the dorm management; note names and appointment details.
4. If no solution is possible, inform the local court or consider legal action with all documents and deadlines.

Help & Support

• Tenancy law (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) – court proceedings
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – forms & guidance
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – selected decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz — bmjv.de
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de