Shared Flat in Dorms: Tenant Rules in Germany
Organizing a shared flat in a dorm requires clear rules, good documentation, and knowledge of your rights as a tenant in Germany. This guide explains how to manage house rules, move-in procedures and shared costs fairly, which obligations landlords have, and which steps are sensible in case of defects, noise or termination. Practical notes on official forms, deadlines and where to find help complete the text. The goal is to avoid everyday conflicts early and to show the path for legally secure steps if problems escalate.
Rights and Obligations in Shared Rooms in Dorms
As a tenant you are entitled to a habitable dwelling; that includes heat, water and protection from mold. The legal bases are in the German Civil Code (BGB) and procedural questions in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)[1][2]. Duties of roommates arise from the rental contract and the house rules; breaches can lead to warnings or, in extreme cases, termination.
Practically Setting WG Rules
Hold a common meeting to discuss basic rules: cleaning rota, visiting hours, use of communal rooms, and how costs are divided. Record agreements in writing as an addendum to the rental contract.
- Set a meeting date within the first two weeks after moving in.
- Document the house rules and important agreements in writing and distribute to all roommates.
- Share costs for electricity, internet and cleaning transparently and set payment deadlines.
- Clarify rules for keys, guests and privacy.
Defects, Communication and Deadlines
Report defects immediately in writing to the landlord and document photos or videos as evidence. When setting deadlines, name a reasonable period for repair. If the landlord does not respond, rent reduction, compensation or reporting to authorities may follow.
Practice: Important Forms and Templates
Use official templates when you terminate or report defects. Example: a written notice of termination and a defect notice with a deadline. For legal steps: observe deadlines and attach evidence.
- Written notice of termination to the landlord (signed).
- Defect notice with deadline (date, description, photos attached).
- Keep records of payments and communication.
If It Goes to Court
In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides in the first instance; higher courts are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH)[3]. Observe the ZPO deadlines for actions and evidence. In many cases, prior conciliation or advice is sensible.
FAQ
- Who is responsible for disputes in the shared flat?
- For tenancy disputes the local court is usually responsible; appeals go to the regional court and in exceptional cases to the BGH.
- Can I reduce rent if the room is damp?
- Yes, for significant defects like dampness or heating failure a rent reduction may be possible if the landlord fails to act in time.
- What deadlines apply for a termination?
- Statutory notice periods are set out in the BGB; also observe any contractual deadlines and formal requirements.
How-To
- Arrange a WG meeting within the first week after moving in to discuss rules.
- Create written agreements on house rules and have all roommates sign them.
- Document defects immediately with photos and dates and send a defect notice to the landlord.
- If necessary, inform the local court or seek legal advice before filing a claim.
Help and Support
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
- Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
