Tenants: Record Meter Readings on Weekends in Germany

Why meter readings on weekends matter

Many tenants in Germany face the problem of reliably recording meter readings outside normal office hours, such as on weekends. This short guide explains how you as a tenant can correctly read meters, create timestamps and photos, and which wording is useful in a handover or notification to the landlord. You will learn which deadlines and rights apply to billing and operating costs, which documents are helpful, and how to proceed in case of disagreements. We also show which official forms and which authority contacts are helpful.

What you should document

• Date and exact time of the reading.
• Take a photo of the meter with a legible reading.
• Secure the meter reading in writing and digitally (e.g. photo plus note).
• Keep the previous bill or last reading for comparison.
• Note the name of the person reading and, if necessary, name witnesses.

Forms, rights and deadlines

As a tenant you can refer to statutory regulations when it comes to operating costs or billing. Tenancy law in the BGB regulates duties and rights of landlord and tenant and is a central basis for billing questions^[1]. The Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) is decisive for details on allocation of operating costs^[2]. Some communications to the landlord should be sent by registered mail or with a shipping proof; official forms and guidance can be found at the Federal Ministry of Justice^[3].

How to collect meter readings as evidence

1. Read: Note meter number, reading, date and time immediately.
2. Photograph: Take a clear photo of the meter.
3. Save: Back up photo and note digitally in two locations.
4. Report: Send the reading to the landlord with attachment and a short message.
5. Keep: File all documents until the next bill.

What to do in case of a billing dispute

If the landlord presents a bill you believe to be incorrect, collect all records (photos, messages, previous bills). A factual inquiry with supporting documents often helps. If the dispute continues, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; further instances include the regional court and possibly the Federal Court of Justice.

FAQ

What if the meter is not accessible?

Document the condition, take photos of the door or lock, and inform the landlord in writing with date and time.

Is a photo enough as evidence?

A photo is very helpful but should be complemented by a written note and, if possible, a sender confirmation.

Can the landlord change the meter reading afterwards?

The landlord should explain and justify changes; if in doubt, you can request inspection of the billing documents.

Who do I contact for repeated problems?

Contact local tenant advice or the Amtsgericht for tenancy disputes; official forms are available from the competent authorities.

How-To

1. Read: Note meter number, reading, date and time immediately.
2. Photograph: Take a clear photo of the meter.
3. Save: Back up photo and note digitally in two locations.
4. Report: Send the reading to the landlord with attachment and a short message.
5. Keep: File all documents until the next bill.

Key Takeaways

• Document time and date for every reading.
• Combine photo and written evidence for greater probative value.
• Use official forms and proofs when necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) § 535 ff.
• Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) § 535 ff.
2. [2] Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Formulare