Rules and Contracts

When signing a contract (i.e. with your landlord, a phone provider etc.), be aware that you will have to honor it to the tee. Germans are usually very strict about this part, and it is difficult to get out of contracts. Make sure you read – and understand – the fine print, especially when it comes to notification periods. In many cases, i.e. if you want to change insurance companies, phone providers or newspaper subscriptions, you will need to inform the other party of your intentions by a certain date specified in the contract, otherwise the contract will be automatically renewed. When you want to move out, you usually have to notify your landlord at least 3 months (!!!) in advance.