Tenants: Check District Heating Charges in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, unexpected district heating back charges can cause stress and high costs. This article explains which documents and receipts to check, which deadlines apply and what rights you have if the bill seems unclear. We explain in plain language terms like the Heating Costs Regulation, operating cost statements and the role of the local court (Amtsgericht)^[3]. You will also find practical steps to file an objection or prepare a lawsuit, including tips on evidence and sample letters. Read on for a step-by-step guide, common mistakes and advice on how to formally object or gather proof. Use the links to official law texts and court information for exact deadlines and forms.

What tenants should check first

Check the formal correctness of the operating cost statement and the heating cost breakdown under the Heating Costs Regulation^[1] and your rights under the BGB (e.g., §§ 535–580a)^[2]. Pay attention to the billing period, consumption figures, allocation keys and the invoices presented.

• Check billing period (deadline).
• Verify consumption values and meter readings.
• Check allocation keys and cost assignments.
• Request original invoices and review them.

Deadlines and formal objections

There are tight deadlines for operating cost statements; check whether the back charge was justified in writing and submitted within legal time limits. Act promptly: set a deadline for the landlord to explain or present documents and, if necessary, send a formal objection by registered mail.

• Set a deadline to clarify the bill (deadline).
• Submit objection in writing by registered mail.
• Document contact with landlord or manager in writing.

What to do if you find errors

If you find errors: make a list of objections, copy all relevant documents and document meter readings with photos and dates. Request a corrected statement from the landlord and set a clear deadline. If no resolution is reached, you can prepare a lawsuit at the competent local court; most tenancy disputes are handled there^[3].

• Collect evidence: photos, meter readings, payment receipts.
• Send a sample objection letter.
• Consider filing a claim at the local court if necessary.

Key takeaways

• Secure receipts and document meter readings.
• Observe deadlines and object in time.
• Send formal letters by registered mail.

Help and Support / Resources

• Heating Costs Regulation (HeizKV) — Gesetze im Internet
• German Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Information on courts and jurisdictions — Federal Ministry of Justice

1. [1] Heating Costs Regulation (HeizKV) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] German Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Information on courts and jurisdictions — Federal Ministry of Justice

FAQ

Can the landlord demand a district heating back charge?

Yes, if the statement was prepared correctly and costs are allocated under the Heating Costs Regulation; check invoices and allocation keys.

What deadline do I have to object?

Respond as soon as possible and set a deadline to clarify; many claims are tied to formal and statutory deadlines, for example to present invoices.

Where do I go in case of dispute?

Most tenancy disputes are heard in the local court (Amtsgericht); there you can file claims or obtain information.

How-To

1. Gather all statements, invoices and meter readings in copies.
2. Request missing invoices from the landlord in writing.
3. Set a reasonable deadline for correction or explanation.
4. Document every communication and keep registered mail receipts.
5. Consider partial payments or deferrals while costs are clarified.
6. If necessary, prepare documents for filing a suit at the local court.