Meter Readings on Weekends: Tips for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the problem of reliably recording meter readings on weekends. Incorrect readings, missing photos or unclear logs later lead to discrepancies in utility bills or heating cost statements. This article explains how, as a tenant, you can document meter readings reliably, observe deadlines and reporting channels, and which official forms and authorities in Germany are relevant. I describe practical steps for move-in and move-out situations, name the most important legal bases in the BGB^[1] and the role of the local court in disputes^[3], and give tips for safe storage of receipts. At the end you will find links to official bodies.

What are common mistakes?

• Missing photos as evidence
• No date or time on the log
• Reading errors lead to incorrect payments
• Not reporting on time to landlord or reading service
• Unsecured storage of receipts

How to read and document meters correctly

When reading, first check the meter number and the correct meter type (e.g. heat cost allocator vs. main meter). Photograph the display so digits and date stamp are clearly visible. Record date, time and your initials in the log. Send the reading by e-mail or registered mail to the landlord or reading service and keep a copy.

• Create a photo record with meter number
• Document date and time
• Send the log to the landlord and request confirmation of receipt
• Keep receipts and bills for at least two years

Official forms and when they apply

For simple reading questions, an e-mail or written log is sufficient. If a formal dispute arises, procedural forms under the ZPO are important, such as a statement of claim or payment order; the specific templates are provided by the competent local court^[3]. For questions on billing by consumption, the Heating Costs Ordinance is relevant^[2]. Example: If your landlord issues an incorrect heating bill, first send an informal request for correction with photo evidence; if there is no response, consider filing a payment order or a claim at the local court (ZPO).

Checklist for move-in and move-out

• Record meter readings at handover (move-in/move-out) in writing
• Take photos of meters and the handover condition
• Send the handover protocol to all parties

FAQ

Who is responsible for correct meter readings?

In principle, the landlord is responsible for billing operating costs, but tenants must transmit and document meter readings correctly; in case of dispute the local court may decide.^[1]

What should I do about an incorrect bill?

Collect evidence (photos, logs), request a written correction and check deadlines for objection or claim under the ZPO.^[3]

Can I deduct or reduce rent due to incorrect heating costs?

Direct rent reduction for billing errors is only possible in limited cases; often the route is a correction request or court procedure under the Heating Costs Ordinance.^[2]

How-To

1. Read the meter number and meter reading and take a photo immediately.
2. Write the date and time (day/month/year, time) in the log.
3. Send the reading by e-mail or registered mail to the landlord and request confirmation of receipt.
4. Keep photo, e-mail and log for at least two years.
5. If problems persist, contact the competent local court for further legal enforcement.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Heizkostenverordnung (HeizKV) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Information on courts and jurisdictions – Federal Office of Justice

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Heizkostenverordnung (HeizKV) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
4. [4] Information on courts – Federal Office of Justice