Tenancy law: housing and the law

Rent is governed by the BGB: rent increase max 20% in 3 years (15% in tense markets — Kappungsgrenze), only after notice and up to local reference rent. Utilities only actual, listed costs. Deposit max 3 net rents. Landlord may not enter without notice — except fire/flood. Cosmetic repairs are often void in new contracts.

• ●Landlord must issue the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung — refusal is a fine
• ●Tenant union ~€50/year — cheaper than one lawyer hour
• ●Defects (mould, heating) → rent reduction — first inform the landlord in writing