Service Charges in Rental Agreements: Transparency Requirements

Service charges often form a source of disagreement in rent disputes. These are additional costs for maintenance, heating, and cleaning, which the landlord may pass on provided they are reasonable and specified. The law requires an annual specification and settlement. Do you pay advances? Then the landlord must send an overview within six months after the end of the year. If too much has been paid, repayment follows; if too little, a supplementary invoice. In the absence of transparency, you can suspend payment or ask the Rent Tribunal to intervene. Common facilities such as lifts and landscaping must be market-conform. Tenants can jointly demand a cost investigation. Unlawful pass-through, such as profit on service charges, is prohibited. Critically check your settlement: compare with quotes and market prices. Disputes are more common with real estate investors due to bulk contracts. Go to court if necessary, with proof of unreasonableness. This keeps your rent fair and clear.