Tenants: Neighborhood Harassment in Germany – Evidence

Many tenants in Germany experience disturbing behavior or systematic harassment from neighbors after moving in. This guide explains in plain terms what rights you have as a tenant, which types of evidence are most relevant, and how to proceed step by step to document harassment and respond legally. The text is aimed at non-lawyers and shows practical actions: collecting evidence, template letters, deadlines and the proper procedure before the local court. Stay factual, compile complete documentation and use official templates to strengthen your position. At the end you will find a short how-to, frequently asked questions and official links for forms and legal texts.

What is neighborhood harassment?

Neighborhood harassment includes repeated, targeted nuisance, threats, noise disturbances or spreading false claims aimed at making the living environment unbearable. Not every disagreement is harassment; intensity, intent and duration of disturbances are decisive. Record date, time, type of disturbance and possible witnesses to create a reliable case.

Collecting and documenting evidence

Good evidence significantly increases your chances of success. Focus on objective proof and keep copies of all documents.

• Photos and videos of noise, damage or contamination (note date and time).
• A written incident log with date, time, duration and description of each event.
• Witness statements recorded in writing and signed where possible.
• Keep all letters and emails between you, the neighbor and the landlord.
• Medical reports or police reports as evidence in cases of physical threats or persistent stress.

Forms and template letters

There is no uniform nationwide "harassment complaint," but you can use standard letters: injunction request to the neighbor, a report to the property manager, or a formal notice to the landlord demanding removal of the disturbance. State the date, facts, required action and a deadline clearly.

Rights, deadlines and competent authorities

German tenancy law in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) regulates landlord and tenant obligations, such as maintenance duties of the landlord and tenant reduction rights^[1]. In serious disturbances, civil action is possible before the local court (Amtsgericht); the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) handles appeals and precedent^[2]. Court proceedings follow the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO), including deadlines for claims and evidence requests^[3].

Practical procedure: sample workflow

1. Collect evidence immediately: photos, videos and an incident log.
2. Send a template letter to the neighbor demanding cessation with a deadline.
3. Inform the landlord in writing and request remedial action.
4. If necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent local court.
5. In court: present a complete evidence file and name witnesses.

FAQ

What qualifies as neighborhood harassment?

Harassment means repeated, targeted acts that make the living environment unbearable; single incidents are usually not sufficient basis.

Can I reduce my rent?

Yes, if the habitability of the flat is significantly impaired; the reduction must be proportionate and well documented.

Who can I involve if harassment continues?

Inform the landlord first, document everything and, if necessary, involve the local court or seek legal advice.

How-To

1. Start immediately: create an incident log and secure evidence.
2. Send a written template letter to the perpetrator with a clear deadline.
3. Notify the landlord in writing and request remedial measures.
4. If necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent local court.

Key Takeaways

• Collect complete evidence with dates and witnesses.
• Use template letters to communicate deadlines and demands clearly.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
• Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Decisions
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)