Germany cracks down on hidden rental fees with new tenant protections
The Bundesrat has approved new rules to strengthen tenant protections across Germany. The reforms target hidden fees and loopholes in the rental market, particularly in areas where housing demand is high. Hesse’s Economic Affairs Minister, Kaweh Mansoori, stressed the need for fair and transparent pricing for renters.
The legislation forces landlords to list net rent and furnishing surcharges separately. This change aims to stop hidden costs that bypass rent controls. Furnishing fees must now be clearly itemised, preventing unclear pricing.
The new rules require landlords to break down costs more transparently. Tenants in high-demand areas should see stronger safeguards against unfair pricing. The Bundestag will now review the proposal before it becomes law.
