Using Rent Index: 5 Steps for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you have important interests in rent matters — for example rent increases, operating costs or repair obligations. This guide shows in five clear steps how to use the rent index correctly, which receipts and evidence are important and how to use template letters to enforce your rights. I explain plainly which deadlines must be observed, how to secure files and photos as evidence and when you should contact the local court. The instructions are practical and include suggested wording for objections, rent increase checks and applications under the BGB.^[1] With practical examples I show wording and deadlines, plus notes on official forms and next steps.

Steps to use the rent index

1. Check the rent index and document comparable apartments.
2. Collect evidence: photos, leases, operating cost statements.
3. Observe deadlines: file written objections within the specified time.
4. Prepare template letters and send by registered mail.
5. If in dispute, inform the local court or file a lawsuit as appropriate.^[2]

For step 1: compare apartment features (size, year built, fittings). Note clear differences and similarities. A precise comparison helps when you check rent levels or object to an increase.

Documents and template letters

• Copy the lease and note contract clauses.
• Check operating cost statements and attach receipts.
• Create template letters for objections or review requests.
• Record deadlines for objection and landlord responses.

Example template: state the proposed rent increase, reference the rent index review and request a written explanation with a deadline. Send by registered mail and keep proof of dispatch.

What to do with conflicting information?

If the rent index and actual comparable rents differ significantly, collect additional evidence (ads, listings, contact comparable neighbours). If the landlord does not respond, inform the local court about your case or seek legal advice. The rules of civil procedure apply in subsequent proceedings.^[1]

FAQ

How quickly must I respond to a rent increase?

Answer: Check the letter immediately and respond within the stated deadline; typically you should review within a few weeks and object in writing if necessary.

Which documents are most important?

Answer: Lease, operating cost statements, photos of the condition, comparable offers and listings are particularly important.

When should I involve the local court?

Answer: If out-of-court resolution fails or deadlines are missed, a lawsuit may be necessary; the local court is the first instance for rent disputes.^[2]

How-To

1. Step 1: Obtain the rent index and note relevant points.
2. Step 2: Document comparable apartments and their features.
3. Step 3: Check deadlines and draft an objection.
4. Step 4: Send the template letter by registered mail and keep proof.
5. Step 5: If necessary, file a claim at the local court.^[2]

Key points

• Check every document digitally and in paper form.
• Respond to deadlines promptly to avoid losing rights.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de