Template: house rules
Clear house rules as a basis for good cohabitation in the building.
House rules govern life in the building: quiet hours, use of common areas and residents' duties. As an attachment to the lease or as part of the community rules, they create clear expectations that everyone can follow.
How the template is structured
Quiet hours
- Night-time quiet, typically 10 pm to 6 am
- Midday and Sunday quiet per local rules
- Room-level volume and noise-intensive activities
Common areas
- Keep stairwell, hallways and escape routes clear
- Cellar, attic and bicycle rooms
- Courtyard, garden and play areas
Order and cleaning
- Stairwell cleaning per rota
- Waste disposal and separation
- Winter service and gritting duty
Safety
- Locking of building and cellar doors
- Fire safety and keeping escape routes clear
- Handling of open flames and barbecues
Further rules
- Keeping of pets
- Laundry and drying rooms
- Contacts and emergency numbers
Legal framework
- House rules take effect as an attachment to the lease or — for condominiums — as part of the community rules.
- Quiet hours follow state immission-control laws and municipal rules.
- Rules must not unreasonably disadvantage residents (§ 307 BGB); invalid clauses are not binding.
- House rules do not replace the main duties of the lease but give them concrete form.
Frequently asked questions
Are house rules legally binding?+
Yes, if validly incorporated — as an attachment to the lease or as part of the community rules. Individual clauses must be reasonable and must not unreasonably disadvantage residents.
May the rules impose a total ban on making music?+
No. Making music may be limited in time but not banned entirely. Common limits are a few hours per day outside quiet hours.
Who sets the house rules in a condominium?+
In a condominium association, the house rules are set or amended by resolution of the owners' meeting.
Are quiet hours the same across the country?+
No. Night-time quiet from 10 pm to 6 am is widespread, but midday and Sunday quiet can vary regionally. State law and municipal rules govern.
We'll email you the template after a quick request.
This template is a non-binding guide and does not constitute legal or tax advice.