Tenants: Conversion Blocking Period in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of whether the so-called blocking period after a conversion from rental apartments to condominium ownership actually provides them with protection. In this article we explain in plain language what a blocking period means, which advantages and disadvantages it has for tenants and how the rules may change in 2025. You will receive practical advice on how to meet deadlines, assert your rights against the landlord and use a sample letter to protect your interests. The text is aimed at tenants without legal expertise and names the relevant laws, authorities and forms so that you can make an informed decision and be well prepared in case of dispute.

What is the blocking period?

The blocking period refers to the time during which a newly formed owner after a conversion may not or may only be able to terminate the tenancy to a limited extent. The aim is to protect tenants from short-term loss of their apartment because buildings are repurposed or usage is changed due to refurbishment. The exact duration and design depend on state regulations and the type of procedure.^[1]

Legal basis

As a tenant you should know the relevant provisions in the BGB, in particular the general provisions on the rental relationship (§§ 535–580a BGB) and the provisions on protection against termination. Rules on civil procedure for eviction actions are contained in the ZPO.^{[1] [2]}

Pros and cons for tenants

Pros

• Protection from immediate termination (notice): the blocking period prevents short-term evictions and gives time for alternatives.
• Security for investments in the apartment (safety): tenants can plan necessary repairs or agreements.
• Transition time for moving (calendar): affected persons have time to find a new apartment or check WBS eligibility.

Cons

• No permanent guarantee (risk): blocking periods are time-limited and do not solve the problem in the long term.
• Limited bargaining power (important): some landlords may still apply pressure or offer voluntary relocation agreements.
• Regional differences (note): regulations vary by federal state and case.

How can tenants use the blocking period in practice?

Important steps for tenants:

• Check deadlines immediately (within): read and note reception and response deadlines.
• Request all relevant documents (form): for example, requests for conversion decisions, owners' meeting minutes and building permits.
• Seek legal advice or tenant support (call): contact advisory centers or the local court for information on the procedure.

Sample letter: how to formulate a statement

A short sample letter to the landlord helps to observe deadlines and secure rights. Important elements:

• Recipient and date (form): clear recipient information and date of receipt.
• Describe the facts (document): briefly explain the conversion and your tenancy.
• Name rights and set deadlines (safety): point out the blocking period and request a written reply within a deadline.

FAQ

Does the blocking period apply automatically to all tenants?

No. Application depends on the specific conversion, timing and regional legal situation; check notices and procedural documents.

Can the landlord still terminate?

During the blocking period, ordinary terminations are often restricted; in exceptional cases there may be special termination rights, e.g. for owner-occupation under statutory rules.

Where can I turn if the landlord threatens me?

Contact your local tenant advisory service, the local court for information on procedures, or seek legal assistance if necessary.

How-To

1. Check deadlines (within): read all landlord letters carefully and note receipt and response deadlines.
2. Request documents (document): request access to resolutions, permits and sale documents.
3. Send sample letter (form): send a formal statement with a deadline by registered mail.
4. Get advice (call): arrange an appointment at an advisory center or consider court options.

Key takeaways

• The blocking period offers short-term protection but not permanent housing security.
• Act quickly and use formal letters to preserve your rights.
• Thorough documentation improves the outcome in disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Information on courts and jurisdictions – justiz.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)