The Betriebskostenabrechnung, literally translated as “operating cost statement,” is an annual financial statement that tenants in Germany receive. It details the actual costs incurred for services and utilities compared to what the tenant has pre-paid throughout the year.
What is “Betriebskostenabrechnung”?
The Betriebskostenabrechnung is a crucial document for tenants in Berlin and throughout Germany, as it reconciles the estimated service charges paid monthly with the actual costs incurred. This statement is provided by the landlord or property management company (HausverwaltungHausverwaltung, literally translated as "house administration," refers to property management in Germany. It involves the administration and maintenance of residential... More) and can result in either a refund to the tenant if they’ve overpaid, or an additional payment request if the pre-payments were insufficient[1][2].
More information about “Betriebskostenabrechnung”
The Betriebskostenabrechnung includes a breakdown of costs such as heating, hot water, trash collection, and other communal services. By law, landlords must issue this statement within 12 months after the end of the accounting period. If they fail to do so, tenants have the right to challenge any subsequent payment requests[1][7].
Related to “Betriebskostenabrechnung”
Here are some additional terms that are related to Betriebskostenabrechnung:
- NebenkostenNebenkosten, literally translated as "additional costs" or "utility costs," are the expenses included in the warm rent of a rental... More: These are the additional costs for utilities and services included in the warm rent (Warmmiete)[2].
- HausverwaltungHausverwaltung, literally translated as "house administration," refers to property management in Germany. It involves the administration and maintenance of residential... More: The property management company responsible for administering the service charges and issuing the Betriebskostenabrechnung[1].
- KaltmieteKaltmiete, literally translating to "cold rent" in English, is a term commonly used in the German real estate market. What... More: The basic rent excluding service charges[1].
- Warmmiete: The rent including NebenkostenNebenkosten, literally translated as "additional costs" or "utility costs," are the expenses included in the warm rent of a rental... More, which covers utilities and communal services[1].
Understanding the Betriebskostenabrechnung is essential for managing your budget and ensuring you are not overpaying for your utilities and services.