Everything you need to know about house rules

What is a Hausordnung?

A Hausordnung is a set of internal rules drawn up by the landlord or the property management. It regulates how common areas may be used, sets rules on cleanliness, quiet hours, noise control, and other details that organize daily life in the building.
It is usually attached to the tenancy agreement and becomes legally binding once it is signed.

What does it usually contain?

1. Rules on cleanliness

• Cleaning the entrance areas and stairwells.

• Removing snow or dirt from sidewalks in winter (in some contracts, tenants take turns doing this).

• Proper disposal of rubbish into the designated bins or containers.

2. Quiet times (Ruhezeiten)

• Defining quiet hours, usually from 22:00 to 06:00, and in some areas also during midday rest.

• During these times, loud devices or loud music are not allowed.

3. Use of common areas

• How the communal garden or backyard may be used.

• Rules for parking bicycles and prams.

• Regulations on hanging laundry on balconies or in the courtyard.

4. Guests and visits

• Sometimes a limitation on the maximum number of guests present at the same time.

• Rules on the use of visitor parking spaces or common facilities by guests.

5. Building safety

• Prohibition of storing flammable or hazardous materials in cellars or entrances.

• Obligation to keep escape routes and emergency exits clear at all times.

How binding is the Hausordnung?

The Hausordnung is legally binding if it forms part of the tenancy agreement or has been agreed separately and explicitly.
The landlord or property management may amend it if necessary, but must inform the tenants in advance of any changes.

What happens in case of violations?

• Usually, a written warning (Abmahnung) is sent first.

• If the violations continue or are repeated, this may lead to lawful termination of the tenancy.

• In some cases, the landlord may claim damages if the breach has caused material damage or extra costs.

Practical tips

• Read the Hausordnung carefully when signing the tenancy agreement and ask for clarification of any unclear points.

• Keep a copy in a visible place so that all family members are reminded of the rules.

• Try to solve minor issues with neighbours amicably before they escalate.

• Always act in a cooperative and respectful manner – this is key to a pleasant living environment for everyone.

Conclusion

Internal house rules (Hausordnung) in Germany help ensure peaceful coexistence in multi-unit buildings and maintain order and cleanliness. By following these rules, you not only protect yourself legally, but also contribute to mutual respect and good neighbourly relations. Remember: respecting these rules has a direct positive impact on your quality of life and that of the people around you.

The editorial team of the website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors may still occur or individual pieces of information may be incomplete or not fully verified. The information in these articles should therefore be regarded as an initial point of reference; for binding, authoritative information, you should always consult the competent authorities or qualified professionals.