Tenants: Check District Heating Refunds in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you should carefully check district heating bills when a refund seems possible. Many mistakes in meter readings, allocation keys or flat-rate heating charges lead to excessive claims. In this article I explain clearly how to check receipts, meet deadlines and formally demand a refund. I name relevant laws such as the BGB and the Heating Costs Ordinance, show practical steps for writing an objection and which proofs are important. If landlords do not respond, I explain how you can enforce claims in court and which courts are competent. The goal is that you as a tenant act clearly and can safely check your service charge statement. Use this guide to plan steps and keep deadlines. Keep copies of all documents.

What does checking district heating mean?

Checking district heating means that you as a tenant control the bill for formal errors, wrong meter readings, incorrect allocation keys or duplicate items. Pay attention to the billing period, to items from the heat supplier and to any prepayments or credits. Note meter readings and compare them with the landlord's statements.

Legal basis

Your rights as a tenant are based on the German Civil Code; in particular, §§ 535–580a BGB regulate the duties of landlord and tenant in rental relationships.^[1] For heating costs there is the Heating Costs Ordinance, which describes distribution, reading methods and billing rules.^[2] In addition, the Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) is important because it specifies cost types and apportionability.^[3]

What to check specifically

• Check deadlines (within days): Verify objection and limitation periods and note due dates.
• Check receipts and meter readings: Compare documents with your own notes and photos of meter readings.
• Check amounts: Review prepayments, deductions and possible double charges.
• Check billing format (form): Ensure detailed breakdown of cost types in accordance with BetrKV.
• Technical plausibility: Do consumption values and annual use match typical values?

If you find inconsistencies, document everything with date, photos and short notes. Send your landlord a precise defect notice or an objection by registered mail or electronically with delivery confirmation.

Formal letter to the landlord

A formal objection should include the date, concrete complaints, the claim (e.g. refund of an overcharged amount) and a deadline for response. Specify the relevant items and attach copies of receipts. Keep the original and send a copy with proof of receipt.

How-To

1. Collect documents: Make copies of all invoices, prepayment statements and photos of meter readings.
2. Object in writing (form): Send a clear objection with a deadline to the landlord and retain proof of receipt.
3. Calculate the claim: Show in your letter how the requested refund is calculated.
4. Observe deadlines: Act within set deadlines or initiate legal steps.
5. Legal action: If necessary, bring the claim before the local court (Amtsgericht) or seek legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

Can I demand a refund immediately as a tenant?

Yes, if the bill is incorrect you can demand a correction and refund. Describe the errors in writing and set a deadline for correction.

Which evidence helps in a refund claim?

Photos of meter readings, copies of invoices, payment receipts and written communication with the landlord are decisive.

Which court do I contact if the landlord does not pay?

Initially the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; higher instances are the regional court (Landgericht) and the Federal Court of Justice for precedent cases.

Help and Support

• Contact the Federal Ministry of Justice
• Laws in the Internet (BGB / Heating Costs Ordinance / BetrKV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - decisions and jurisdiction

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Duties of the landlord (§§ 535–580a)
2. [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) - billing and distribution
3. [3] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) - apportionable costs