Tenants: Meter Readings for Remote Move in Germany

When moving remotely, accurate documentation of meter readings is important for tenants to avoid later disputes with the landlord. In Germany, deadlines, evidentiary duties and utility billing rules determine how meter readings must be reported.^[1] Best practice: take a dated photo, note the meter number and send the report in writing by email or registered mail to the landlord. For students, clear steps are helpful because notice periods are often short and time windows limited. This article explains which forms and proofs are important, which deadlines must be observed and how to proceed in case of disagreements, for example at the local court or through mediation.^[3]

What applies to a remote move?

For a remote move, the same basic rules apply as for a normal move-out: meter readings must be documented at the handover time because later utility statements are otherwise difficult to verify. Legal bases can be found in the BGB (rental contract obligations) and in the Heating Costs Ordinance concerning consumption recording.^[1][2] It is important to record date, time, meter number and the read values and to send a written notification to the landlord.

Concrete steps before, during and after the remote move

1. Photograph meters and note values: create a photo with visible meter number and date.
2. Send written notification to the landlord: short email with meter reading, date and attached photos or send by registered mail.
3. Observe deadlines: submit the notification at the latest on the handover date or within the contractual deadline.
4. Report defective meters: if measuring devices are missing or faulty, document the defect and ask the landlord to repair it.
5. Check deposit and billing: keep copies of the meter reading report until the utility bill is verified.

How-To

1. Note date and time: read meter readings on the handover day and record date and time alongside the value.
2. Take photos: photograph the meter display and the meter number clearly from close range.
3. Report in writing: write a short meter reading notice with name, apartment address, meter number, value and date and send it by email or registered mail to the landlord.
4. Get confirmation of receipt: ask for confirmation or keep the registered mail receipt as evidence.
5. Keep records: save photos, emails and shipping receipts at least until the final utility bill.

FAQ

Who reviews the bill if there are discrepancies?

If there are discrepancies, tenants can ask the landlord to clarify; if no agreement is reached, the local court usually decides as the first instance.^[3]

Do I have to use a specific method of transmission?

No, there is no prescribed method; written communication (email with attachment, registered mail) is recommended to have evidence.

Are there official forms for the meter reading report?

There are no nationwide official forms for meter readings. Use a short meter reading report with all relevant information and photos.

Help & Support / Resources

• [1] § 535 BGB - Landlord obligations (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• [2] Heating Costs Ordinance - consumption and billing (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• [3] Federal Court of Justice - court system information (bundesgerichtshof.de)

1. [1] § 535 BGB - Pflichten des Vermieters (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Heizkostenverordnung - Verbrauch und Abrechnung (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - Informationen zum Gerichtssystem (bundesgerichtshof.de)