Hello dear tenants! We all know that rental law is complex. But as a tenant in Germany, it's essential to be informed and clearly understand the rights and obligations you have. Let's dive into what exactly this means for you.
What is the landlord responsible for starting 2023?
From 2023, there will be some significant changes in rental law. One of the primary responsibilities of the landlord is the maintenance of the property. This not only includes remedying defects but also ensuring that the property remains in pristine condition.
Which costs cannot be passed on to the tenant?
In general, the landlord must cover more extensive repairs, while the tenant is responsible for minor repairs up to a certain amount (e.g., 75-100 Euros). However, these amounts must be specified in the rental contract. If not, the tenant is exempt from this payment obligation. Costs for uniform bell and mailbox labels are also the landlord's responsibility.
How much must a landlord pay for repairs?
The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property. This means they must cover damages resulting from regular wear and tear, such as worn-out floors or leaks in pipelines. For cosmetic repairs, the landlord is also obliged unless there's a clear and legally binding agreement in the rental contract.
What rights do I have as a tenant?
As a tenant, you have the right to a property in proper condition. If issues like mold occur, responsibility depends on the cause. However, generally, the landlord must prove that mold growth isn't due to structural defects. Moreover, as a tenant, you have the right to timely utility billing and receipts for all pass-through operating costs.
When is a tenant committing an offense?
The text doesn't provide direct indications of when a tenant might be committing an offense. But generally, tenants should always be honest and transparent with their landlords, fulfill all agreed obligations from the rental agreement, and ensure the property remains in proper condition.
Maintenance obligation: What does this mean for tenants?
The landlord's maintenance obligation ensures that the property remains livable. This means that water, electricity, and gas lines must be in perfect condition. If something breaks, the landlord is obliged to fix it.
Who pays for repairs?
For significant repairs, the landlord is always responsible. Minor repairs in the apartment, such as changing light switches, however, can be undertaken by the tenant, provided they don't cost more than 75-100 Euros, depending on what was agreed in the rental contract.
Remedying defects and damages: Who's responsible?
Damages resulting from normal use, like worn-out floors or leaks in pipelines, fall under the landlord's responsibility. The landlord must ensure the property remains in good condition throughout the entire rental period.
Mold Removal: Who is responsible?
Addressing mold can be intricate. Generally, the landlord has to prove that the mold was not caused by structural defects. If they can't, they are responsible for its removal and any consequential costs. Otherwise, the tenant might bear the responsibility.
Duty to Ensure Safety: What must be guaranteed?
Landlords are responsible for ensuring no one gets hurt in or around the building. This means common areas, like stairwells, corridors, and gardens, must be safe. Paths should be clean and illuminated when necessary.
Doorbell and Mailbox Labels: Who covers the costs?
If the landlord desires uniform doorbell and mailbox labels, they must pay for them. There's no obligation for the landlord to display tenant names on these unless stipulated in the rental contract.
Utility Bill: What should be considered?
Landlords are required to provide an annual utility bill. The auxiliary costs that can be passed onto tenants are regulated by the Operational Costs Ordinance. Crucially for tenants: If the bill isn't provided within a year, the landlord can't demand back payments!
Heating Provision: What can be expected?
Landlords must ensure that, between October 1 and April 30, the property can be heated to at least 20 degrees Celsius. If this isn't met, the tenant has the right to reduce the rent.
Announcement of House Rules: What should I know?
Landlords must disclose the house rules. This means they should be included in the rental agreement, and the tenant acknowledges them with their signature.
Garden Maintenance: Who's responsible?
Responsibility for garden maintenance depends on the rental agreement. Minor tasks might be assigned to the tenant, while significant tasks, like tree removal, fall to the landlord.
Issuing a Landlord Certificate: What does this mean?
Since 2015, landlords must provide a Landlord Certificate. This means the landlord must give the tenant a certificate of moving in or out within two weeks.
Accountability: What rights do I have as a tenant?
Landlords need to ensure all additional costs are economical and reasonable. As a tenant, you have the right to demand receipts and invoices for all cost points, especially if you believe something is amiss.
A well-informed tenant is a happy tenant. It's vital to know where you stand and be aware of your rights. In today's dynamic real estate market, staying updated can sometimes be challenging. But thanks to platforms like Homeboy, it becomes considerably easier. Homeboy not only offers invaluable information for tenants but also actively assists in finding the perfect home. With our innovative service, which sends alerts from 8 real estate portals as soon as new listings are posted, you'll never miss an attractive rental offer again. If you haven't tried our service yet, now might be the perfect time.
So, stay informed, be prepared to stand up for your rights, and utilize all available resources to make your renting journey as pleasant as possible!