Terminating a tenancy: get the deadline and form right
You want to move out of your rented flat? As a tenant you can almost always give notice with a period of three months, without a reason. The right period and the written form are important, otherwise your move-out is postponed.
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Create the termination →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
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1. Calculate the deadline
Three full months. If the termination is received by the 3rd working day of a month, the tenancy ends at the end of the month after next.
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2. Terminate in writing
Write the termination, sign it by hand, and name all tenants named in the contract (all must sign).
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3. Secure receipt
Send it by registered mail with proof of delivery or have receipt confirmed; in a dispute, provable receipt counts.
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4. Prepare the handover
Arrange a handover appointment and create a handover protocol, which is also important for your deposit.
Frequently asked questions
What notice period do I have as a tenant?
As a rule three months (§ 573c BGB), regardless of how long you have lived there. Some contracts with a waiver of termination or a stepped or index rent deviate; check your contract.
Is a termination by email enough?
No. Termination of a flat must be made in writing with your own handwritten signature (§ 568 BGB). Email, fax, or messenger are not enough. The safest way is to send it by registered mail with proof of delivery.
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.