Tenants: How to Report Changes in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you must inform your landlord about certain changes, such as moving address, new household members or changed income that can affect housing allowance or utility charges. This article clearly explains which information matters, how to document changes legally and within deadlines, which time limits and legal bases (e.g. BGB)^[1] apply and which official agencies can help. The guide includes step-by-step templates, practical examples and notes on when a local court or a claim under the ZPO^[2] may be necessary. The aim is to help you act confidently and organized without a lawyer, avoid conflicts and protect your rights as a tenant in Germany. Read on for concrete wording suggestions and examples of letters to your landlord.

What must tenants report?

• Address change (address change notice)
• Change in household size / new roommates (move-in / move-out)
• Income change (income, important for housing allowance)
• Change of bank details for rent payments (rent payment)
• Defects and repairs (repair: heating, mold, water)

How to document changes legally

Being informed in writing means: send a short dated notice to the landlord and keep a copy. If possible, use registered mail or an email with delivery confirmation and attach supporting documents (e.g. registration certificate, proof of income). Many legal duties and rights are set out in the German Civil Code (§§ 535–580a BGB)^[1]; practical notes on claims or court procedure are in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2]. You can view § 535 BGB online: § 535 BGB.

Forms and templates (official)

There is no single central form for "change notifications" to landlords, but the following official forms may be relevant:

• Housing allowance application (Wohngeldantrag) – when your income changes and you need to apply for or update housing allowance.
• Court and procedure forms at the local court – for eviction claims or rent disputes under the ZPO.
• Short documents / proof: registration certificate from the municipal registration office when you change address.

Practical example: You move in with a partner and must report the income change because you receive housing allowance. Attach a copy of the new registration certificate and the last three payslips. Forms and guidance for housing allowance are available from the responsible ministries and your municipality.^[4]

FAQ

Do I have to notify my landlord of every address change?

Yes, inform the landlord promptly in writing of your new address so that deliveries and billing are correct.

What deadlines apply for reporting income changes (housing allowance)?

If your financial situation changes you should report it immediately to the responsible housing allowance office; delays can lead to repayment claims.^[4]

What happens if I do not report defects?

Unreported defects can delay repairs; document defects immediately in writing and request a deadline for remedy.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: registration certificate, payslips, photos of defects (evidence).
2. Write a short notice to the landlord with date and reason (notice).
3. Send the notice with proof of delivery and observe deadlines (deadline).
4. If a dispute arises, inform the local court or seek judicial assistance (court).

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions
• Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building (Wohngeld)

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
4. [4] Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building – Wohngeld