My service-charge statement looks too high. What can I do?

Have it reviewed. The landlord must present it within twelve months of the end of the period; after that, additional claims are usually barred. Individual items can also often be challenged.

The landlord is terminating for their own use. Is that valid?

Owner's own use must be specifically justified and genuinely exist. Whether the termination is valid and whether you have a right to object depends on the case and should be reviewed.

Do you also advise condominium owners' associations?

Yes. We advise on resolutions, service money and the challenging of resolutions, as well as on disputes within the association.

Practice Areas

Tenancy and condominium law in Berlin

For owners, landlords and tenants: commercial and residential tenancy law and condominium law, from drafting the lease to eviction and resolution disputes. Kathleen Meier's focus.

Kathleen MeierAttorney · Partner Enquire about a matter

At a glance

The service-charge statement must reach the tenant within 12 months of the end of the period (§ 556 BGB).
Advice on rent increases, owner's own use, defects and termination.
Commercial and residential tenancy and condominium (WEG) law from one source.
Representation in eviction, resolution and service-charge disputes.

What we handle

Commercial tenancy

Drafting and review of commercial leases, amendments and handovers.

Residential tenancy

Rent increases, owner's own use, defects and termination, for landlords and tenants.

Condominium (WEG) law

Challenging resolutions, service money and questions within the owners' association.

Service charges

Review and enforcement or defence of service- and operating-cost statements.

How we work

Tenancy disputes cost money and nerves, and tend to end better when you know the legal position early. We review leases and statements closely, tell you clearly what is enforceable and find the route that reaches your goal fastest.

Kathleen Meier has advised in tenancy and condominium law for many years, combining careful contract work with the experience of numerous proceedings before the Berlin courts.

Common questions

Have it reviewed. The landlord must present it within twelve months of the end of the period; after that, additional claims are usually barred. Individual items can also often be challenged.
Owner's own use must be specifically justified and genuinely exist. Whether the termination is valid and whether you have a right to object depends on the case and should be reviewed.
Yes. We advise on resolutions, service money and the challenging of resolutions, as well as on disputes within the association.