Mold in the apartment? How to reduce the rent
Mold on the wall, a failed heater or leaky windows? You do not have to accept such defects. For the duration of a significant defect, the rent is reduced by operation of law; what matters is that you report the defect.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Report defects and reduce →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Document the defect
Photograph the mold or damp, note since when and where. If needed, keep a room-climate log.
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2. Give notice of the defect in writing
Report the defect to the landlord in writing and ask him, with a deadline, to fix it (§ 536c BGB).
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3. Announce the rent reduction
Announce that you will reasonably reduce the rent for the duration of the defect, and retain the reduction amount (ideally under reservation).
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4. Clarify the cause
What matters is the cause: a structural defect (landlord) or incorrect airing and heating (tenant). In a dispute, an expert report helps.
Frequently asked questions
How much may I reduce the rent?
That depends on the severity and extent of the defect. Court rulings (rent reduction tables) provide orientation, for example noticeable percentages for large-area mold or a heating failure in winter. Reduce cautiously and under reservation.
What if the landlord says it is my fault?
What matters is the cause. If it lies in the building fabric (for example thermal bridges), the landlord bears responsibility. If he claims incorrect airing, an expert report can provide clarity.
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.