Tenants: Shared Dorm Conflicts in Germany

As a tenant in Germany living in a dorm or shared flat, you enjoy many benefits but may also face everyday tensions with roommates and the landlord. This article explains in practical terms how tenant rights under the BGB work, what duties household communities have, and which steps help to resolve conflicts early. You will learn how to report defects correctly, secure evidence and draft formal letters properly. There is also guidance on mediation, how to act in case of payment problems and the procedure of a possible eviction claim. The aim is to resolve conflicts fairly, avoid disputes and enforce your rights effectively in Germany. With concrete letter templates, deadline tips and links to official forms we help you make secure decisions and respond in time.

Rights and Duties in the Dorm

As a tenant, the rules of the German Civil Code (BGB) apply. Particularly relevant are landlord and tenant duties regarding maintenance, operating costs and use of the rental property; the key paragraphs are §§ 535–580a BGB^[1]. Dormitory house rules and community regulations often add daily rules but may not conflict with statutory minimum standards.

Concrete Steps for Conflicts

When a conflict arises, a structured approach helps: document, communicate, set deadlines, and, if necessary, initiate formal steps.

• Report defects in writing and set a deadline for remedy.
• Collect evidence: photos, dates, witnesses, save messages.
• Seek discussion with the landlord and roommates or suggest mediation.
• If escalation occurs, consider legal action; tenancy cases are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht).

Defects, Repairs and Termination

The landlord must keep the apartment in a condition that conforms to the contract. If a repair is necessary and is not carried out despite notification, tenants may under certain conditions reduce the rent or demand remedy; the legal basis is in the BGB^[1]. In cases of payment problems or formal termination there are deadlines and form requirements: an effective termination must be in writing and, if conditions are met, can lead to an eviction claim governed by procedural rules in the ZPO^[2].

FAQ

Can I reduce rent if the heating fails?

Yes, rent reduction is possible if usability is significantly impaired. Report the defect in writing and document duration and scope.

Am I liable for damages caused by other roommates?

Liability depends on the lease agreement and fault. Dormitory rules can further specify responsibilities.

How do I set deadlines for repairs correctly?

Send a written defect notice, set a reasonable deadline for remedy and announce further steps if necessary.

Who do I contact if eviction is imminent?

Contact the local court early and seek legal advice, since deadlines and procedural steps must be observed.

How-To

1. Step 1: Identify the defect and document it (photos, date, witnesses).
2. Step 2: Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline.
3. Step 3: Secure evidence and communication; consider mediation.
4. Step 4: If unresolved, consider legal action and consult the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Form templates and service – Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Formularmuster und Service – Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)