Tenants Notify Changes: Legal Guide for Germany

As a tenant in Germany, personal data or financial circumstances often change, especially during studies. This guide explains in simple steps which changes you should notify your landlord or authorities about, which deadlines to observe and which documents are frequently required. I show how to draft letters, secure delivery confirmations and when a formal application (e.g., for housing allowance) is necessary. Practical examples for students help avoid common mistakes. Legal bases such as tenancy law in the BGB^[1] and procedural rules of the ZPO^[2] are mentioned so you know which institutions decide cases and which proofs should be provided. At the end you will find an FAQ, a step-by-step how-to and official contact points.

What to report

Always report changes in writing, briefly and with a date. Typical notifications include:

• Change of address: new address, move-in date and, if applicable, registration at the residents' registration office.
• Income changes: inform immediately for housing subsidies or graduated rents.
• Change of study status: BAföG changes or semester status can affect housing allowance eligibility.
• Change of roommates or subtenants: provide names and start dates.
• Bank details for rent payments: provide IBAN, BIC and, if applicable, direct debit mandate.

Forms and evidence

For certain applications you need official forms or proofs. Important examples:

• Application for housing allowance: form at your city/municipal administration; a student certificate may be required for students.
• Housing entitlement certificate (WBS): required for subsidized housing under the WoFG^[4].
• Termination letters or delivery confirmations: keep templates and written proofs.

How-To

1. Gather documents: have your tenancy agreement, payment receipts, enrollment certificate or payslips ready.
2. Draft the letter: briefly state the facts, the date of change and requested actions.
3. Observe deadlines: report changes promptly; check the tenancy agreement or seek advice if in doubt about deadlines.
4. Secure proof of delivery: use registered mail with return receipt or save email confirmations.
5. Document follow-ups: confirm phone calls in writing and note the date.
6. In case of dispute: local courts handle tenancy disputes; seek legal advice and respect deadlines.^[3]

Problems with repairs or rent increases

For serious defects, reduce rent only according to established practice and documentation. For rent increases, check the justification and deadlines in writing. Collect photos, correspondence and witness statements as evidence.

FAQ

How do I notify my landlord of an address change?

Write a short notice with the new address and move-in date, send it by registered mail or email and keep the proof.

Do I have to report changes to the authorities?

Yes, certain changes such as registration address or income changes for social benefits must be reported to the competent authorities.

Which institution decides tenancy disputes?

Local courts are competent at first instance; higher instances include regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice for tenancy law issues.^[3]

Key takeaways

• Written notifications with dates increase your proof in later disputes.
• Complete documents (tenancy contract, payment proofs, enrollment) simplify applications like housing allowance.

Help and Support

• BGB §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building — Housing allowance info

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
4. [4] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — Gesetze im Internet