Tenants in Germany: Serviced Apartment Rules

As a tenant in Germany, a serviced apartment can offer many advantages but also raises specific questions about contracts, utility charges and termination. This article explains in plain language which rights and obligations you have, how to report defects, keep deadlines and which receipts you should collect. We also describe which courts are responsible and which official forms exist so you can avoid conflicts or resolve them quickly and securely. I also explain when a rent reduction is possible, how to check utility statements and which deadlines apply to termination and eviction. At the end you will find an FAQ and a step-by-step guide for sample forms.

What applies to serviced apartments?

Serviced apartments are often offered as furnished, time-limited accommodations. Legally, basic principles of tenancy law under the German Civil Code (BGB) apply to most contracts, in particular the landlord's duties to maintain and preserve the rental property.^[1] For court procedures such as eviction lawsuits or claims for payment, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is relevant.^[2]

Important steps for tenants

• Check deadlines and note them in writing, e.g. termination deadlines or deadlines for defect remediation.
• Report defects in writing and collect photos as evidence.
• Keep receipts and proof of payments, including utility statements.
• Review contract clauses or have them reviewed before you agree.
• Contact the competent local court (Amtsgericht) in case of legal disputes.

If problems cannot be resolved amicably, you can prepare formal steps: timely warning, rent reduction or, as a last resort, a lawsuit at the local court. Pay attention to the rules for operating cost statements and heating cost billing.

Forms and templates

For formal letters, such as a timely termination or a notice of defects, there are templates and guidance from the Federal Ministry of Justice.^[3] A typical "termination letter template from the BMJ" contains sender, recipient, specific contract details, date and a clear termination statement as well as a request for confirmation of receipt.

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent if the serviced apartment has defects?

Yes, under certain conditions tenants can reduce the rent. Document defects and inform the landlord in writing.^[1]

Who is responsible for eviction lawsuits?

Eviction lawsuits are usually heard by the competent local court (Amtsgericht).^[4]

Where can I find official sample forms?

The Federal Ministry of Justice provides official templates and guidance.^[3]

How-To

1. Identify deadline(s) in the contract and set calendar entries.
2. Report defects in writing and archive a copy of the letter.
3. Collect photos and payment receipts and organize them chronologically.
4. If necessary, seek advice or contact the local court.

Key Notes

• Respond to deadlines promptly to avoid legal disadvantages.
• Keep a working copy of all correspondence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms and guidance
• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO and regulations)
• Justice portal – Court information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Muster und Hinweise – bmj.de
4. [4] Justizportal – Gerichtsverzeichnis – justiz.de