Rental termination

Ending your rental agreement in Hamburg: what you should consider

If you wish to properly terminate your rental agreement for an apartment in Hamburg, a statutory notice period of three months applies. It's crucial that the landlord receives your notice by the third working day of the month; otherwise, the termination date might be delayed. Does your rental property pose a health risk due to mold or faulty gas lines? In such exceptional circumstances, the specified notice period may be waived. In the case of a modernization announcement under § 555 BGB or a rent increase under § 561 Abs. 1 S. 1 BGB, you can also exercise your special termination rights—this means you are not bound by the full notice period. Ensure that you adequately justify the special termination and submit it in a timely manner.

Whether it's a regular or extraordinary termination, make sure your letter includes the landlord's address, your current residential address with the floor level, and the date of termination. Additionally, request a landlord's response so you can jointly arrange the handover date. While the landlord is not obliged to provide a written confirmation of the contract termination, you are welcome to request such a document in your termination letter if desired.

Renting in Hamburg: Key guidelines for termination

Do you rent out a property in Hamburg and wish to terminate the lease? Whether it's a regular or immediate termination, you must provide a legitimate reason. Possible grounds for an immediate termination include consistent noise disturbances, missed rent payments, or other breaches of the rental agreement. Ideally, you should still give your tenants enough time to move and arrange alternative housing.

The notice period for a regular termination is governed by § 573 c Abs. 1 BGB and depends on the duration of the tenancy: for a rental duration of less than 5 years, a standard notice period of 3 months applies. If the rental period is between 5 and 8 years, you need to allow a 6-month notice period. For a tenancy lasting more than 8 years, a 9-month notice period is required. Even if your tenant wishes to move out before the notice period ends, they are still obligated to fulfill all payment obligations until the termination takes effect.

Do you want to rent out your spacious house or charming apartment in one of Hamburg's sought-after locations? In our article, you'll learn which important details should not be missing from your rental agreement.

Personal use for your rental apartment or house in Hamburg: what you need to know as an owner

If you wish to terminate your rental agreement due to personal use, it is essential to provide detailed reasoning in the termination notice. A mere mention of your intent is insufficient. Generally, personal use applies when you or a family member intends to use the property for residential purposes. Let your tenant know who will occupy the property, when, and for what purpose. For your termination to be legally effective, it's crucial to adhere to the statutory notice periods.

Do you have further questions about terminating your lease or want to rent or buy a property in Hamburg? The real estate agents at Engel & Völkers are available to provide advice and help you execute your plans easily and promptly. You can also rely on our consultants' expertise when selling or renting your property in the port city. We are happy to offer personal consultations in one of our Hamburg shops or over the phone. The consultation is, of course, free and non-binding. Feel free to use our contact form to communicate your request. We look forward to partnering with you to successfully rent or sell your house or condominium!