Receive and review rent index

A rent index gives you an overview of the rents of comparable flats in your city or municipality. It contains reference points,

• whether a rent increase is justified,
• whether the rent level at the start of the tenancy is permissible if the flat is located in an area in which the regulations of the so-called rent brake apply,
• whether the rent is fundamentally appropriate.

The German Civil Code (BGB) and the Rent Index Ordinance distinguish between

• simple rent rolls
• and qualified rent indexes.

The simple rent index is an overview of the standard local comparative rent. This is formed from the rents that have been newly set in the last 6 years on the occasion of a new letting or a rent increase. Rents from rent-controlled flats are not included in the comparative rent.

For such an overview to actually be considered a rent index, it must be drawn up or recognised by the competent authority, which is usually the local authority, or by the interest groups representing landlords and tenants.

A qualified rent index must also be prepared in such a way that it follows recognised scientific principles. In the event of a dispute, a qualified rent index has greater probative value than a simple one.

The rent index rent is shown per square metre. It varies depending on the property,

• where a flat is located and
• how big,
• old,
• Energy-efficient refurbishment
• or luxuriously equipped it is.

The furnishings of the flat play a role, for example:

• Double-glazed window,
• Structural radiators or
• Parquet flooring.

Cities or municipalities with more than 50,000 inhabitants are legally obliged to draw up a rent index.

Since 1 July 2022, all simple and qualified rent indexes have been available online free of charge.

Simple rent indices should generally be adjusted to market developments and published every two years. In the case of qualified rent indexes, an update is required every 2 years and a new one every 4 years.