Rent reduction for Windows & Doors
Draughty windows let the heat out, and a broken flat door arguably lets out more. On top of that, broken windows often drag further defects behind them, from mould in the reveal to a flat that simply will not get warm.
5 types of defect · rates from 1 % to 20 %
This text was machine-translated. Only the German version is legally binding. To the German original
Every defect in this category at a glance
Windows cannot be opened
5–15 %The windows cannot be opened, so airing the rooms is impossible.
Deadline for the repair: approx. 14 daysWindows cannot be closed
5–15 %The windows cannot be closed, a safety risk and a source of heat loss.
Deadline for the repair: approx. 7 daysLeaky windows (draughts)
5–20 %The windows are not airtight, causing draughts in the apartment.
Deadline for the repair: approx. 21 daysApartment door cannot be locked
3–10 %The apartment door cannot be locked, a security defect.
Deadline for the repair: approx. 3 daysDoorbell / intercom broken
1–5 %The doorbell or intercom does not work.
Deadline for the repair: approx. 21 daysThe legal position
Windows and doors have to be usable in the normal way; that is what the landlord owes. He cannot fall back on the age of the building, an old window has to close too. Where safety is at stake, such as a flat door without a working lock, the rates come out markedly higher than for pure comfort problems.
Every reduction requires a defect notice (Mängelanzeige) under § 536c BGB, because the claim only becomes enforceable once the landlord knows. To the guide: writing a defect notice
Frequently asked questions about Windows & Doors
How much rent reduction is possible for Windows & Doors?
The guidance values in this category range from 1 to 20 percent of the gross warm rent. The highest rate falls to “Leaky windows (draughts)” at up to 20 percent. What always governs is the duration, intensity and extent of the impairment in the individual case.
Which defects belong to Windows & Doors?
This category covers 5 types of defect: Leaky windows (draughts), Windows cannot be opened, Windows cannot be closed, Apartment door cannot be locked, Doorbell / intercom broken.
What do I have to do before I reduce the rent?
Report the defect to your landlord in writing without delay (§ 536c BGB) and set a deadline for the repair as a specific date. Only from the landlord's knowledge onwards is the reduction practically enforceable. If in doubt, keep paying under protest for now.
Other defect categories
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Select your defects, enter your gross warm rent and receive a finished defect notice. Free and without registration.
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