Reports in Germany show that up to nine out of ten utility bills (Nebenkostenabrechnung) contain errors, especially in heating, water, or building cleaning charges.
Experts advise tenants to carefully review each bill and compare it with their rental contract. Tenants also have the right to request actual consumption data for heating and water. Not all costs can legally be passed on to tenants – major repairs or certain administrative fees are excluded.
Tenant associations (Mieterverein) can provide valuable support, reviewing bills and filing formal objections if necessary. Specialists stress that tenants should not pay immediately if there are doubts about the accuracy of the charges.
Sources - Agencies
