Heating fails in winter? Your rights as a tenant
A cold apartment, a broken heater, especially in winter that is more than an annoyance. A working heating system is part of the contractual condition. If it fails or it stays too cold, you can reduce the rent.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Report the defect and reduce rent →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Measure the temperature
Measure the room temperature at different times of day and note it with the date.
- 2
2. Report immediately
Report the heating failure to the landlord without delay and demand a prompt repair (deadline).
- 3
3. Reduce the rent
For the duration of the impairment you can reduce the rent appropriately (pay under reservation).
- 4
4. If the landlord is inactive
If the landlord does not react, further steps (replacement heating, self-remedy) are an option; get advice first.
Frequently asked questions
From what temperature may I reduce the rent?
There is no rigid limit, but during the heating period a minimum temperature of around 20 to 22 °C is usually required for living rooms during the day. If it stays significantly colder for a long time or the heating fails, there is a defect that entitles you to a rent reduction (§ 536 BGB). At night the values may be somewhat lower.
How much can I reduce for a heating failure?
That depends on the severity and the outside temperature. For limited warmth it is often moderate percentages; for a complete failure in winter, courts have awarded very high reductions up to a large part of the rent. Important: report the defect immediately and make the reduction under reservation.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.