Tenants: Document Internet Outages in Germany

Many tenants in Germany experience temporary internet outages and do not know how to respond in a legally secure way. This guide clearly explains which steps you should take as a tenant: how to systematically document outages, which deadlines apply, when a rent reduction may be appropriate and which courts or authorities are responsible. The advice is practical and avoids legal jargon so you can secure evidence correctly, prepare formal notices and communicate clearly with the landlord. I also explain common mistakes landlords or tenants should avoid and list official legal bases and forms in Germany so you are well prepared in a dispute.

What to do in case of an internet outage?

In case of an outage: test quickly, document and inform the landlord. Start with simple tests (restart the router, check other devices) and record the results. Then collect evidence, note times and inform the landlord in writing with a clear defect notice.

• Save photos, screenshots and log files (evidence)
• Record date, time and duration (time)
• Inform the landlord in writing: defect notice by email or registered mail (notice)
• Check rent reduction and document calculation (money)

Forms and legal steps

There is no uniform nationwide template form for a defect notice; the communication can be informal but should include date, description of the outage and a reasonable deadline for remedy. If the landlord does not respond or rights are violated, the next step is a lawsuit at the competent local court; civil proceedings are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure^[2]. Legal bases for the rental agreement and rent reduction are found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a^[1]. If in doubt, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be decisive^[3].

Practical examples: A tenant documents repeated outages for three weeks with screenshots and router logs, sends a defect notice by email and registered mail and then calculates a proportional rent reduction. A tenant who needs legal help applies for legal advice assistance or approaches the local court for a claim.

Rights, duties and common mistakes

Common mistakes are insufficient evidence, missing time records, or only verbal notices to the landlord. It is also risky to terminate the contract unilaterally without legal review. As a tenant, you are entitled to contractually agreed use of the dwelling, including agreed internet services if they are part of the lease. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance.

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent because of an internet outage?

Yes, under certain conditions a rent reduction is possible if internet service is part of the contractual use; the amount depends on the scope and duration of the impairment.

How do I write a defect notice?

Describe the outage precisely, attach evidence, include date and time, and set a reasonable deadline for remedy; send the notice preferably by email and registered mail.

Where do I turn in a legal dispute?

For civil disputes the competent local court (Amtsgericht) has jurisdiction; BGH decisions may be relevant for legal interpretation.

How-To

1. Test immediately and record the time (time)
2. Collect evidence: screenshots, router logs and photos (evidence)
3. Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline (notice)
4. Consider and document a rent reduction; seek advice if uncertain (money)
5. If necessary, file a claim at the local court (court)

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a – German Civil Code
• ZPO – Code of Civil Procedure
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO - Zivilprozessordnung
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice: Decisions and information