mietminderung

Rent reduction during modernization and building works

7 rulings on this topic – with reduction rate, case number and link to the decision.

Updated: October 2026 · 119 court rulings

Tenants usually have to tolerate modernization – but they may still reduce the rent when noise, dust, scaffolding or a closed-off kitchen impair the use of the apartment. Note: for energy-efficiency modernization, the first three months do not count towards a reduction (§ 536 (1a) BGB).

The result of a modernization can also be a defect: smaller window areas and less daylight after new windows, or a much smaller bicycle cellar, justified a permanent reduction in the rulings in the table.

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7 rulings found

Enforce your right to rent reduction

Create a free defect notice with a rent reduction demand — backed by these court rulings.

Reduce rent
DefectReductionDescription
70 %Heating completely out Oct–Dec during conversion to an apartment gas heating system
30 %Attic conversion: scaffolding, covered windows, construction noise, plaster falling from the ceiling
30 %Extensive construction work in the building: vibrations, noise, scaffolding, dust and solvent smell; later 20%
20 %Advertising banner on scaffolding covered 4 of 5 windows and the balcony
12 %After modernization, window areas a third smaller in four rooms; 3% per window
5 %Less daylight after modernization due to insulation, smaller windows and a balcony above
4.8 %Bicycle cellar reduced from 49 to 7 m² by modernization (rate of the lower court upheld)