Tenants: Share CO2 Costs in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, you can check in advance in 2025 whether and how CO2 costs may be distributed between tenants. This guide explains in plain language what rights tenants have, which deadlines apply and which documents you should collect so that claims are effective. We briefly describe the relevant legal bases, such as the BGB and the Heating Costs Ordinance, show concrete steps to request a transparent utility bill and provide templates for letters to the landlord. You will also learn where to find official forms and which courts are responsible in disputes. The goal is that you can decide confidently and enforce your claims against the landlord convincingly and legally secured.

What changes in 2025?

From 2025, adjustments to the passing on of CO2 costs will take effect. Tenants should know whether the lease or statutory rules allow the landlord to pass these costs on. Check the bill carefully, because allocation keys and evidence are decisive.

What rights do tenants have?

As a tenant, you have the right to an understandable utility bill and timely information. The following steps help secure your rights:

• Check deadlines (within 30 days): File an objection within 30 days.
• Collect evidence: Archive emails, bills and photos as proof.

• Make a written demand: Send a request to the landlord and set a deadline.
• For disputes, seek judicial resolution: involve the competent local court (Amtsgericht).
• Check payments: Verify deductions and allocation keys.

How to demand splitting of CO2 costs

1. Check the bill and deadlines (within 30 days).
2. Request a detailed breakdown from the landlord in writing.
3. Collect all receipts and create a summary with totals.
4. If necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent local court.

FAQ

Can the landlord simply pass on CO2 costs?

Not without basis: Allocations must be contractually permitted or legally supported; check the BGB and the Heating Costs Ordinance.^[1][2]

Which deadlines apply for objections?

Usually you should respond within 30 days; check the billing deadline in the lease and in the BGB.^[1]

Which court do I contact in case of dispute?

For tenancy disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; higher instances include the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3]

How-To

1. Check deadlines and file an objection within the period.
2. Send a written demand to the landlord and document receipt.
3. Gather evidence and prepare a clear overall statement.
4. If necessary, file a suit at the local court and attach copies of all documents.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation is essential to substantiate claims.
• Observe deadlines, otherwise rights may be lost.
• Request a transparent utility bill in writing.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Heating Costs Ordinance on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) on gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV) on gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law