Rent reduction for defects

In short: If a flat has a significant defect, such as mould, heating failure or heavy noise, the tenant may reduce the rent. The reduction applies by law for as long as the defect lasts.

In more detail: You must report the defect to the landlord in writing without delay and give time to remedy it. The size of the reduction depends on how much the use is impaired.

In detail

• Duty to notify: Without notification you can reduce only from the time the landlord knew.
• Evidence: Photos, dates, witnesses and a defect log secure your claims.
• Typical rates: A heating failure in winter can amount to many percent of the rent. Exact figures are decided case by case.
• Caution: Reducing too much can lead to arrears and termination. Better to pay under reservation and seek advice.
• Help: Tenants’ association or legal advice (mietvertrag-die-wichtigsten-punkte-vor-der-unterschrift).