Shared flats: rules and contracts

In short: A shared flat (WG) is divided between several people, usually not related. Clear agreements on rent, housekeeping and rules prevent many conflicts.

In more detail: Legally, a distinction is made between a main tenancy agreement with all flatmates and sublet agreements for individual residents.

In detail

• Tenancy models: Either everyone is on the main contract or one person sublets to the others (untermiete).
• Deposit: Agree who pays which share and how it is divided when moving out.
• Household plan: Record cleaning rota and division of tasks in writing.
• Shared costs: Clarify internet, electricity and household items in advance.
• Flatmate interview: Many shared flats get to know new flatmates in person before moving in.
• Conflicts: Regular flat meetings help address problems early (konfliktmanagement-im-alltag).
• Moving out: Clarify notice periods and successor tenant arrangements in advance.