Checking your service charge statement

How to check your service charge statement (Germany):

Step 1: check the deadline. The statement must arrive no later than 12 months after the end of the billing period. Too late = you don't have to pay any arrears.

Step 2: check the allocation key. Are the costs allocated by floor area, number of people or consumption? Is that in the tenancy agreement?

Step 3: check the items. Which costs may be passed on? Maintenance and administration costs can NOT be passed on! Only operating costs under § 2 BetrKV.

Step 4: compare with the operating costs index. The German Tenants' Association publishes average figures every year. If your costs are well above them, request the receipts.

Tip: you have 12 months to object. Tenants' associations help with checking free of charge.