🤝Flatshare Etiquette in Germany

Collaborate with your flatmates to create a weekly or bi-weekly Putzplan, assigning specific tasks for common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. Stick to it diligently.

Always clean dishes, countertops, and cooking areas immediately after you've finished using them. Leaving things for later is generally frowned upon.

Wipe down the sink, shower, and toilet after each use. Ensure no hair or personal items are left behind. Keep it pristine for the next person.

Avoid leaving personal items, clothes, or shoes in shared hallways, living rooms, or bathrooms. German WGs value clear, uncluttered common spaces.

If you have shared pantry or fridge space, clearly label your items. Keep your designated areas tidy and ensure expired food is promptly removed.

Beyond the Putzplan, take initiative to quickly vacuum or sweep shared living areas if they get visibly dirty. Small efforts make a big difference.

Germany has strict waste separation rules (Mülltrennung). Learn and adhere to the system for paper, plastic, organic, and general waste bins.

Regularly open windows for several minutes, even in winter, to prevent mold and ensure fresh air. This is a common German practice.

If a flatmate isn't adhering to the cleaning schedule, address it calmly and factually, focusing on the issue rather than personal blame.

Clean the washing machine's detergent tray or the oven after use. Report any damage or malfunctions promptly to your flatmates.

Strict quiet hours are typically from 10 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and often all day Sunday. Avoid loud music, vacuuming, or noisy activities during these times.

Always inform your flatmates in advance if you plan to have guests over, especially for overnight stays or larger gatherings. Discuss expectations beforehand.

If you host a party, ensure the noise doesn't disturb flatmates or neighbors. Consider moving to a bar or public space if it gets too loud.

A closed door generally signifies a desire for privacy. Always knock and wait for an invitation before entering a flatmate's private room.

When listening to music, watching movies, or gaming in shared spaces or your room during quiet hours, use headphones to avoid disturbing others.

Take long or loud phone calls in your private room, especially during quiet hours. Avoid shouting or speaking loudly in common areas.

When leaving or arriving during quiet hours, try to be as silent as possible. Avoid slamming doors, loud footsteps, or excessive talking.

If you're considering a pet, it's crucial to discuss this with all flatmates and the landlord (Hauptmieter or property owner) before bringing one home.

If a flatmate is being too loud, approach them politely and directly. A simple "Entschuldigung, könntest du bitte etwas leiser sein?" works wonders.

Be aware of your flatmates' work or study schedules. Avoid making unnecessary noise when they are likely sleeping or needing quiet.

Establish a shared fund or a system like Splitwise for communal purchases (toilet paper, cleaning supplies) and shared bills (internet, electricity).

Germans value punctuality. Ensure your share of rent, utilities, and any WG-Kasse contributions are paid on time, often by the 1st or 3rd of the month.

Legally required within two weeks of moving to Germany, register your address at the local Bürgeramt. Your flatmates or Hauptmieter will provide the Wohnungsgeberbestätigung.

If you anticipate difficulties paying your share, communicate immediately and openly with your flatmates. Transparency is key to trust.

Understand your contract type. If you have an Untermietvertrag (sublease), clarify responsibilities with the Hauptmieter (main tenant).

Schedule occasional flatmate meetings to discuss any issues, upcoming plans, or improvements. This fosters open communication and prevents misunderstandings.

Understand who the contracts are with (e.g., Deutsche Telekom, Vodafone for internet; Stromio, E.ON for electricity) and how bills are split.

Be mindful of energy and water consumption. Turn off lights, unplug chargers, and don't take excessively long showers to keep costs down.

Clarify if long-term guests incur additional costs for utilities or if there's a limit to how long they can stay.

If an issue arises, address it directly and calmly rather than leaving notes or making veiled comments. Germans appreciate directness.

Keep your cooking area tidy while you prepare meals. Wipe spills immediately and don't leave food debris or dirty utensils on the counter.

Designate specific shelves or areas in the fridge/pantry for each flatmate and label your items clearly with your name and date. This prevents confusion.

Regularly check your food items and promptly dispose of anything expired or spoiled. No one wants to share a fridge with moldy leftovers.

Never take or consume a flatmate's food or drinks without explicit permission. Even a small item can lead to significant tension.

If cooking strong-smelling foods, open a window and use the extractor fan. Be considerate of flatmates who might be sensitive to certain odors.

After using the oven, microwave, or toaster, ensure they are clean and free of crumbs or food splatters. This includes the coffee machine.

In smaller kitchens, coordinate cooking times to avoid overcrowding. A quick chat about dinner plans can prevent bottlenecks.

If you've cooked a large batch of food, offering to share with flatmates is a kind gesture, but don't feel obligated. It's a nice-to-have.

Quickly sweep or wipe up any crumbs or spills on the kitchen floor after cooking or eating to maintain overall cleanliness.

If you see a full, clean dishwasher or dish rack, take the initiative to empty it. This contributes to a positive shared living environment.