Tenants in Germany: Dispute District Heating Price Rise

If you receive a sudden district heating price adjustment with reimbursement, tenants in Germany can respond and review the bill or claim. This article explains in plain language which rights tenants have, which deadlines apply and how to formally dispute a price adjustment. You will get concrete steps for collecting evidence, composing an objection and communicating with the landlord or involving the local court if needed. Understand which laws such as the BGB and the Heating Cost Ordinance apply^[1][2] and which official forms are relevant in different situations. All guidance is practical and easy to follow.

What to do if the bill is incorrect?

First check the district heating bill carefully: date, billing period, calculated consumption values and the reimbursement. Document anomalies and note when you received the bill. If amounts are unclear, request the landlord's supporting documents (heating bills, contracts with the district heating supplier, meter readings).

Important first steps

• Check deadlines (within 12 months) and act promptly.
• Write a formal objection (serve a notice) and send by registered mail.
• Collect evidence: bill, meter readings, photos and correspondence as evidence.
• Contact the landlord (call) and set a deadline for clarification.

If the landlord does not respond or the reply is insufficient, continue in writing. A formal objection should briefly state the reasons (e.g. incorrect consumption figures, missing documents) and set a deadline for correction. If possible, name a specific contested amount.

Forms and official steps

Relevant forms depend on your goal: application for a payment order at the local court, application for legal aid (PKH) or templates for written objections. Use official application channels if the landlord does not cooperate. If necessary, initiate payment proceedings or file a lawsuit at the Amtsgericht, which is usually responsible for tenancy disputes.

How to dispute (brief)

1. Review the bill: collect dates, calculation basis and meter readings.
2. Draft a written objection (form): state facts, claim and deadline.
3. Contact the landlord (contact) and request documentation; set a deadline.
4. If necessary, start payment proceedings or file a lawsuit at the local court (court).
5. Consider applying for legal aid (approved) if you cannot afford court costs.

FAQ

Can I stop a district heating price adjustment immediately?

You cannot unilaterally stop a bill, but you can formally dispute the bill and, where legally permitted, withhold payments; the local court handles legal measures.^[3]

Which deadlines apply for objections to the bill?

The landlord can often assert additional claims within 12 months; tenants should file objections promptly and in writing to preserve rights.^[1]

How-To

1. Check the bill and note discrepancies.
2. Request supporting documents in writing and set a deadline.
3. Send a specific objection (within 14 days recommended) by registered mail.
4. If no agreement, prepare records for proceedings at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Local Court (court): Information on jurisdiction and procedures
• Heating Cost Ordinance (heating): Rules for billing
• BGB §§ 535–580a: Tenancy law provisions

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Heizkostenverordnung – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Information and decisions