Tenants: Collect Comparable Rentals in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, systematically collecting comparable rentals can be crucial to protect yourself against unjustified rent increases, incorrect service charge statements, or looming terminations. This collection includes listings, photos, excerpts of rental contracts, and documentation of the condition and equipment of comparable apartments in the same city or neighborhood. Clear comparative evidence can strengthen arguments with the landlord or in court and help meet deadlines. In this article I explain in practical terms which documents are important, how to use official forms, and which authorities or courts in Germany are responsible. The aim is to give you concrete steps and templates so you can enforce your rights as a tenant more securely.

Why comparable rentals matter

Comparable rentals help prove the customary local rent level, document defects in the apartment, and strengthen your position in negotiations or disputes. When a landlord demands a rent increase or service charges are unclear, comparable offers provide concrete reference points for a fair assessment.

• Listings and exposés of comparable apartments nearby
• Photos of condition, meter readings and damages
• Copies of your rental agreement and previous correspondence
• Handover protocols and proof of repairs
• Service charge statements and payment receipts
• Information on location, size and equipment of comparable rentals

What evidence to collect

Collect evidence systematically: save listings as PDFs or screenshots with dates, create a folder structure (digital and physical), and keep a short log of when and where you found comparable rentals. Note deadlines and contacts so you can respond quickly if needed.

Legal use of comparable rentals

In Germany, tenancy claims often rely on provisions in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a ^[1] as well as on procedural rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for court disputes ^[2]. Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht); appeals go to regional courts and ultimately to the Federal Court of Justice ^[4]. Official forms and templates can be found at the Federal Ministry of Justice ^[3].

FAQ

How do comparable rentals help with a rent increase?

Comparable rentals show the customary local rent and can demonstrate whether a rent increase is reasonable.

What deadlines should I observe if I file an objection?

Legal deadlines apply to rent increases and formal landlord letters; respond promptly and document the receipt of all letters.

Where do I submit evidence if a case goes to court?

Evidence is submitted as attachments in proceedings at the competent local court and should be arranged chronologically and clearly.

How-To

1. Document the date and source of each listing immediately, preferably with a screenshot and link.
2. Save photos of the apartment condition at move-in, during tenancy, and at move-out.
3. Make copies of relevant contract sections and note any agreements with the landlord in writing.
4. Keep records of defect reports and repair appointments.
5. Keep all payment receipts and service charge statements and compare them to similar apartments.
6. Use official advisory services or legal aid if you are unsure.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) – full text
• Sample forms and guidance – Federal Ministry of Justice
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Sample forms and guidance — Federal Ministry of Justice
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de