Eviction for personal use

A termination for personal use (Eigenbedarfskündigung) means: the landlord wants to use the flat for themselves or close relatives.

When is it lawful (Germany)?

✅ For the landlord themselves, spouse, children, parents, siblings
✅ Must be in writing with a specific justification (who, why, when)
✅ Notice period: 3 months (up to 5 years' tenancy), 6 months (up to 8 years), 9 months (over 8 years)

When is it NOT lawful?

❌ Pretended personal use (the landlord actually wants to re-let at a higher rent)
❌ Housing entitlement certificate in place (social housing)
❌ Hardship case (old age, serious illness, pregnancy)

What to do? Contact a tenants' association! Approx. 50% of terminations for personal use can be challenged.