Tenants: Enforce Interim Meter Reading in Germany

Move-In & Move-Out Inspections 2 min read · published September 07, 2025
Check your rights as a tenant in Germany early when it comes to interim meter readings, billing and disputes with a landlord. This guide explains in simple terms what duties landlords and tenants have, which deadlines matter, and how to document evidence safely. It contains practical steps, official form tips and guidance on preparing administrative visits and possible court proceedings. The goal is that as a tenant you can assert your interests legally without taking unnecessary risks or missing deadlines. Use the following steps, FAQ and official links to conduct an interim meter reading correctly and enforce claims if necessary.

What tenants in Germany need to know

The interim meter reading can be important when moving in, moving out or disputing service charges. The landlord is obliged to bill correctly and tenants must raise objections in time if bills are unclear. Relevant provisions can be found in the Civil Code and in specific regulations.[1]

Detailed documentation increases your chances in a legal dispute.

Preparation: Documentation & Evidence

Good preparation reduces conflicts. Collect meter readings, photos, correspondence and payment receipts. Note date and time of reading and keep all messages. If the landlord does not cooperate, thorough documentation helps in a possible lawsuit.

  • Take photos as evidence and note the date.
  • Send a written notice to the landlord by registered mail.
  • Keep rent payments and deposit receipts.
  • Record technical details for heating or water repairs.
Keep meter photos with a date and an additional proof item.

Forms and official templates

There is no single mandatory form for every situation, but useful templates include:

  • Termination letter (template) for ending the tenancy; use a written, dated letter when moving out.
  • Written defect notification / request for remedy (template) when a meter or billing is incorrect.
  • Evidence protocol with photos and timestamp for meter readings.
Templates help structure evidence but do not always replace legal advice.

When the local court is competent

For many tenancy disputes such as rent reduction, termination or eviction claims, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; appeals go to the regional court and possibly the Federal Court of Justice.[2]

Respond within set deadlines to avoid losing rights.

How-To

  1. Record the meter reading and date immediately on move-in or when discovered (within 14 days if possible).
  2. Take at least two photos of the meter from different angles as evidence.
  3. Send a written notice to the landlord requesting confirmation of the reading.
  4. Keep all payments and billing as receipts and compare values.
  5. Contact tenant advice services if needed and document the conversation.
  6. If no agreement is possible, prepare a lawsuit and file documents at the local court (ZPO procedure).[3]
Organize files clearly and chronologically to simplify court procedures.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
  2. [2] Information on the court system and local courts
  3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)

Categories

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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