Window Replacement 2025: Tenant Rights in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may often wonder what a planned window replacement means for your rights, rent and living comfort. This guide explains in plain language when landlords may modernize, which notification and deadline rules apply, how cost allocation and rent increases are legally reviewed, and when you as a tenant can consent or object. You will receive clear guidance on required forms, documentation of defects, access rights for craftsmen and the procedure in disputes before the local court.^[4] Practical checklists and action steps help secure your tenancy and avoid unnecessary costs.

Rights, Deadlines and Costs for Window Replacement

The landlord must announce modernization measures and state the legally required deadlines and content; relevant provisions are found in the BGB.^[1] For cost allocation in modernization, § 559 BGB applies: part of the modernization costs may be passed on to rent if properly announced. Check the landlord's letter for scope, start date, expected duration and anticipated rent increases.

What Tenants Should Check

• Notification period: Check dates and deadline information and whether the notice was made in writing.
• Type of work: Is it a pure window replacement (thermal protection) or more extensive intervention?
• Access appointments: Clarify appointments and access rules with the landlord.
• Cost allocation: Understand which costs may be passed on to you and how rent will change.
• Documentation: Photograph defects and the condition before and after the exchange.

Forms and Practical Examples

There is no official form for every step, but for court actions and certain notifications, use official templates or written letters.

• Written statement/objection: Possible without a formal template; send a dated letter with facts and reasoning.
• Claim form for civil disputes: For eviction or payment claims, courts use standardized filing forms under the ZPO.^[2]
• Rent reduction: No uniform government form; document the defect and calculation in writing with photos and invoices.

FAQ

Do I have to agree to the window replacement as a tenant?

No, there is not always a general right to agree; the landlord may carry out modernizations under the BGB rules but must inform and respect deadlines. For substantial interventions, tenant participation rights and reduction claims may apply.^[1]

Can the landlord pass all costs on to the rent?

Not entirely: under § 559 BGB, part of the modernization costs can be passed on. The amount and calculation must be transparent; request proof of the calculation.

Where do I pursue a dispute against the landlord?

Tenancy disputes are first heard by the competent local court (Amtsgericht); legal questions can later be decided by regional courts and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3]

How-To

1. Check the announcement: Read scope, start, duration and expected rent increases carefully.
2. Document the apartment: Take photos, note dates and describe existing defects.
3. File an objection: Send a dated written letter with reasons to the landlord and keep proof of sending.
4. Take legal steps: Contact the local court or legal advice if out-of-court resolution is not possible.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - bundesgerichtshof.de
4. [4] Informationen zu Amtsgerichten - justiz.de