Tenants: Document Internet Outages in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, internet outages can be highly relevant and may give rise to rent reduction claims or other remedies. This guide explains in plain language how to avoid mistakes when preserving evidence, which deadlines and formal requirements matter, and how to document facts so they hold up in an urgent court proceeding. We show simple steps for data preservation, written communication with the landlord and provider, and what courts typically expect. The goal is that you, as a tenant, are prepared and can present your claims clearly, verifiably, and legally sound.

What to do immediately

Begin documenting as soon as an outage occurs. Note date and time, save screenshots of error messages and keep a short outage log. Contact the internet provider in writing and by phone, and record every contact. Ask the provider for a confirmation of the outage if possible.

• Call the provider and note the time, person you spoke to and the outcome.
• Take screenshots, photos of the router and save log files or outage timestamps.
• Send a brief formal outage report by email or registered mail to provider and landlord.
• Record recurring outages with date and duration to show a pattern.

Court‑worthy documentation: checklist

For later proceedings it is important that evidence is traceable, unaltered and dated. Combine digital evidence with written correspondence and witnesses if possible. Avoid gaps in chronology.

• Save original emails and replies in a folder (also as PDF).
• Document any repair attempts or appointments with technicians if they relate to the outage.
• Create a continuous outage log with time, duration and impact on use.
• Send a reminder or set a deadline to the provider/landlord if there is no response.

Common mistakes to avoid

Errors such as missing timestamps, only verbal reports or deleting log files weaken your position. Resetting devices without keeping logs can destroy evidence.

• Avoid vague statements like "for a long time" without exact times.
• Keep all messages unchanged and preserve metadata (email headers).
• Do not miss formal deadlines when setting time limits in correspondence.

Emergency proceedings and court: what tenants need to know

If immediate protection is needed, an urgent procedure can be filed at the competent local court (Amtsgericht); procedural rules are in the ZPO.^[2] For tenancy claims, the BGB provisions are relevant, especially regarding landlord duties and rent reduction.^[1] Use clear, dated evidence and the outage chronology as attachments to the claim.

Practical tips for preparing a claim

Prepare an ordered evidence dossier: cover sheet, table of contents, chronological evidence, screenshots, log files, correspondence, witness statements. Mark relevant passages and add a brief summary.

• Create a cover sheet with a short description of the issue and the remedy you seek.
• Attach copies of all letters and screenshots, each with date and time.
• File the claim with the competent local court or have it reviewed by a lawyer.
• Apply for an injunction if urgent protection is required.

FAQ

Can I reduce my rent because of an internet outage?

Yes, if the habitability of the flat is substantially affected, a rent reduction may be possible; the legal basis is in the BGB.^[1]

Which court handles urgent decisions (emergency proceedings)?

The local court is usually responsible for urgent decisions; the procedure follows the rules of the ZPO.^[2]

Which types of evidence are especially important in court?

Dated screenshots, log files, correspondence with provider and landlord, as well as witness statements are particularly persuasive.

How‑To

1. Record immediately the date, time and duration of each outage and save screenshots.
2. Report the outage in writing to provider and landlord and request confirmation.
3. Assemble a dossier with all evidence, highlight relevant parts and include a summary.
4. If necessary, file a claim or an urgent application with the competent local court; observe ZPO deadlines.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Keep evidence complete, dated and unaltered.
• Send formal written notices to provider and landlord and keep copies.
• Act quickly on deadlines to preserve your rights in urgent proceedings.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• ZPO — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de