Claim Rent Reduction — Your Right When Defects Exist
Create a professional letter claiming rent reduction due to apartment defects. The AI drafts your defect notice with reduction announcement under German Civil Code (BGB).
Important Tips
- Rent is reduced by law when the property has a defect that significantly impairs its suitability for contractual use (Section 536(1) BGB)
- A prompt defect notice to the landlord is required (Section 536c BGB) — without notice you risk losing the right to reduce
- The reduction amount depends on the extent of impairment — common reduction tables provide guidance but are not binding
- Do not reduce too much — an excessive reduction may be treated as payment default and entitle the landlord to terminate (Section 543(2) No. 3 BGB)
Notice Period
Rent reduction applies by law from the moment the defect exists and the landlord is informed. The defect notice should be made without delay after discovery (Section 536c BGB). There is no deadline for claiming, but delayed notice may lead to liability for damages.
How It Works
Describe
Describe in plain language what you want to write.
AI Creates Your Letter
Our AI generates a professional letter in DIN 5008 format.
Sign & Receive
Sign digitally and receive the finished PDF by email.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I reduce my rent?
The reduction amount depends on the extent of impairment. There are no fixed rates, but guideline values exist: broken heating in winter 20-50%, noise disturbance 10-30%, mold 10-100%, elevator outage 5-15%. The reduction applies to gross rent including utilities (Federal Court of Justice, judgment of 06.04.2005, XII ZR 225/03).
Do I need to inform the landlord first?
Yes, a defect notice under Section 536c BGB is mandatory. Without notice, you lose the right to reduce and may be liable for consequential damages. The notice should be in writing and describe the defect specifically. Set a deadline for repair at the same time.
Can the landlord terminate due to rent reduction?
Not for a justified reduction. However, an excessive, unjustified reduction may be treated as payment default. If arrears reach two months' rent, the landlord may terminate without notice (Section 543(2) No. 3 BGB). Therefore, carefully assess the reduction amount or pay the excess under reservation.
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Claim rent reduction