Discover all guide articles in the category Tenancy law

The guide articles in this category provide targeted information on a specific topic – from legal basics to hands-on tips. Whether you're a tenant, landlord, or apartment seeker – here you’ll find well-structured, easy-to-understand insights.

Category Tenancy law

Definition of a Shared Apartment

Definition of a Shared Apartment in Germany A shared apartment (WG) exists when two or more peopl... »


Tenancy Laws in Germany

Tenancy law is a central part of German civil law and governs the relationship between tenants an... »


Tenants, Subtenants and Landlords – Rights and Duties

Tenants, Subtenants and Landlords In tenancy law, different parties are involved: landlords, main... »


Rent Level – How High Can Rent Be?

Rent Level and Legal Limits The rent level in Germany is generally negotiable between tenant and ... »


Subletting Permission – Tenant and Landlord Rights Explained

Landlord’s Permission for Subletting Subletting means that a tenant rents out part of their apart... »


Clauses in the Rental Contract – What Is Allowed and What Isn’t

Freedom of Contract and Legal Limits Under German tenancy law, the principle of freedom of contra... »


Fixed-Term Rental Agreements – Rules and Tenant Rights

What Is a Fixed-Term Lease? A fixed-term lease is a rental agreement with a defined duration. It ... »


Rental Defects and Legal Remedies – How Tenants Can Enforce Their Rights

What Counts as a Rental Defect? A rental defect exists when the apartment does not meet the agree... »


Reimbursement of Expenses – When Tenants Can Repair Defects Themselves

What Is Reimbursement of Expenses? Reimbursement of expenses (German: Aufwendungsersatz) is an im... »


Rent Reduction – Tenant Rights, Risks, and Safe Alternatives

Conditions and Risks of Rent Reduction A rent reduction is legally permitted if the apartment can... »


Compensation for Damages – When Landlords Are Liable

Tenant’s Right to Compensation under § 536a BGB In addition to rent reduction and reimbursement o... »


Termination Due to Defects – When Tenants Can End the Lease Immediately

Legal Basis for Immediate Termination Under Section 543(1) of the German Civil Code (BGB), tenant... »


Ordinary Termination – Rights and Duties for Tenants and Landlords

Termination by the Tenant Tenants may terminate the lease at any time in compliance with the stat... »


Extraordinary Termination – When Tenants or Landlords Can End the Lease Immediately

What Is an Extraordinary Termination? An extraordinary termination (also known as immediate termi... »


Moving Out – Renovation Duties for Tenants and Flatshares

Renovation at Moving Out – General Legal Principles When moving out of an apartment or flatshare,... »


Moving Out of an Apartment or Shared Flat – Security Deposit Refund and Tenant Rights

Right to Reclaim the Security Deposit When moving out of an apartment or when a flatmate leaves a... »


Enforcement in Rental Apartments – What Tenants Should Know

1. What Does Enforcement Mean? Enforcement occurs when a creditor uses the court system to collec... »