Termination without notice over rent arrears? Not all is lost yet
You are behind on the rent and the landlord terminates without notice? That is serious, but you can often still avert it. If you pay the arrears in time, the termination without notice becomes ineffective.
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What you should do now
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1. Clarify the arrears
Determine the exact amount of the outstanding rent and check whether the claim is correct.
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2. Pay quickly or get help
Settle the arrears as soon as possible. If you receive Bürgergeld or social assistance, the Jobcenter or social welfare office can assume the rent debt as a loan (Mietschuldenübernahme).
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3. Use the grace period
At the latest within two months after service of the eviction claim, you must pay in full to cure the termination without notice.
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4. Get advice
A tenants' association or a lawyer can assess the situation. Important: an additionally declared ordinary termination is not automatically cured by the payment. Have that checked.
Frequently asked questions
Can I still avert a termination without notice over rent arrears?
Yes, through the grace-period payment: if the arrears are paid in full within two months after service of the eviction claim (or assumed by a public body), the termination without notice becomes ineffective (§ 569 para. 3 BGB). This is only possible once within two years, however.
Who helps if I cannot pay the rent arrears?
If you receive Bürgergeld or social assistance, the responsible body can assume the rent debt as a loan to avoid homelessness. Turn quickly to the Jobcenter or social welfare office and to debt or tenant counseling.
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.