Tenants in Germany: 5 Steps to Success

Many tenants in German big cities know the problem: despite good creditworthiness they receive rejections for apartment applications, for example for shared flats. This guide explains in clear, practical steps what rights you have as a tenant in Germany, which forms and proofs help, and how to challenge a rejection. We show how to prepare documentation, which contact points exist and when going to the local court makes sense. The language remains understandable, legal terms are explained, and there are concrete templates for letters to landlords. Read on to sustainably improve your chances in housing applications and disputes. You will also find sample objection texts and tips for securing evidence.

What to do after a rejection despite creditworthiness?

Landlords may check creditworthiness but must not engage in unlawful discrimination. First, check which documents the landlord requested and whether the rejection was justified. Collect all relevant evidence: self-disclosure, credit report, proof of income and references from previous landlords. If the rejection seems unjustified, document emails and phone notes and request a written explanation. For legal questions, the rules of tenancy law in the BGB apply.^[1] For court actions, the rules of the ZPO are relevant.^[2]

Concrete steps

• Gather all proof of creditworthiness and rent payment, including credit report, income statements and reference letters.
• Write a short, factual objection to the landlord and request a written justification.
• Set a clear deadline (e.g. 14 days) for a response and submission of missing documents.
• Contact local tenant advice centers or the consumer advice center if needed.
• Consider whether filing a lawsuit at the local court is sensible if your objection receives no reply.

Besides the objection, a well-formulated template letter can increase your chances. State facts: date of rejection, which ad you applied for, which documents were submitted and which additional proofs you offer (e.g. guarantor, certificate of no rent arrears). For court actions, there are complaint forms, mainly needed when enforcing concrete claims. A practical example: provide income statements for the last three months, a current credit report and a certificate of no rent arrears and offer to provide a guarantor.

FAQ

Can a landlord reject a shared-flat application because of creditworthiness?

Yes, landlords may check financial ability but must not discriminate for reasons such as origin or family status. If there is no factual justification, provide evidence and file an objection.

Which deadlines apply when I object?

There is no uniform legal deadline for landlords, but set a reasonable deadline of typically 14 days in your objection for a written response.

When should I go to court?

Filing a claim at the local court makes sense if the landlord does not respond to justified objections and concrete rights appear to be violated, for example when formal allocation criteria were not followed.

How-To

1. Complete your documents: credit report, income statements and certificate of no rent arrears.
2. Write a factual written objection to the landlord and request a justification.
3. Set a deadline of about 14 days for a response and offer additional proof or a guarantor.
4. Seek advice from tenant protection or local counseling centers.
5. As a last step, consider filing a lawsuit or claim at the local court if the landlord gives no adequate reply.

Key Takeaways

• Good documentation significantly increases the chances of success.
• A formal written objection often clarifies the situation.
• Early consultation with tenant advice or the local court can prevent costly mistakes.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB: Rights and duties of the landlord
• Federal Court: information on rulings
• Information on local courts and jurisdictions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)