WG House Rules: Noise & Tenant Rights in Germany

Special Housing Types 2 min read · published September 07, 2025
Many tenants in Germany live in shared flats or multi-family buildings and have questions about quiet hours, house rules and modernization work. This article explains in plain language what rights and obligations tenants have, how a transparent house rule can regulate quiet hours, and which steps are possible in conflicts with the landlord or flatmates. You will receive practical advice on documenting disturbances, communicating about repairs and the correct approach for noise complaints or announced modernizations. Official forms and courts are named so you can act purposefully if needed.

WG House Rules and Quiet Hours

A clear house rule helps set expectations and avoid conflicts. Tenants are subject to the general duties and rights from the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)[1], for example regarding defect notices and protected quiet times. Describe concrete quiet hours, rules for parties, cleaning and visitors in the house rules, and state how modernizations must be announced.

Tenants are entitled to a basic standard of living.

What belongs in a house rule?

  • Clear quiet hours (e.g. 22:00–06:00) and rules on volume.
  • Cleaning schedules for shared areas and waste separation.
  • Access, key rules and privacy in communal spaces.
  • Information about announced modernizations and dates.
Discuss proposed rules with all flatmates in advance to ensure acceptance.

Modernizations: Rights and Process

Landlords must announce modernizations and inform tenants in good time; many rules are found in the BGB.[1] Learn about deadlines, possible rent increases and how the landlord must provide information. In case of disputes the local district court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance for tenancy disputes.[2]

  • Request a written announcement and justification of the works including the schedule.
  • Document disruptions with dates, times and photos as evidence.
  • Set a reasonable deadline for the landlord to remedy defects.
Respond in writing and within the deadline, otherwise you may lose rights in court.

Forms and Templates

Use official templates for termination or defect notices to ensure formal correctness. Examples include termination letters and templates available on official ministry websites; these help with precise wording and evidence in disputes.[3]

FAQ

What are common quiet hours in shared flats?
Common quiet hours are from 22:00 to 6:00; exact times can be set in the house rules and should be visible to everyone.
Can the landlord enforce a house rule?
Yes, a house rule that is part of the lease or agreed upon is binding; if unclear the district court may decide.
How do I submit a defect notice correctly?
Write a short, factual defect notice with date, specific description, a requested deadline for remedy and documentation (photos, log).

How-To

  1. Document the defect or disturbance with photos, date and time.
  2. Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline.
  3. Wait for the deadline and collect further evidence if necessary.
  4. If no solution is reached, consider filing at the competent district court or seek legal advice.

Help and Support

  1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
  2. [2] Information on courts — justiz.de
  3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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