If your landlord notifies you of your own requirements, there are a number of steps you can take:
Check the legality of the termination for personal use: Check whether your landlord's personal use cancellation is legally permissible. This can vary depending on the federal state and legislation. Many federal states have their own state laws and regulations that govern tenancy law and may contain specific provisions on personal use. These laws may differ in terms of deadlines, requirements and procedures. Check the tenancy laws and regulations in your state or region to ensure that your landlord fulfils the necessary requirements.
Check alternative solutions: Sometimes alternative solutions can be found to avoid owner occupation. For example, you could suggest to your landlord that you rent another comparable flat within the same rental property, if available.
Observe deadlines and dates: Make sure that you adhere to the deadlines and dates specified in the personal use cancellation. If you wish to take legal action to contest the cancellation, you should adhere to the relevant deadlines in order to protect your rights.
Raise an objection if necessary: If you are of the opinion that the termination for personal use is unjustified or does not meet the legal requirements, you can lodge an objection if necessary. This may mean filing an action for unfair dismissal or taking other legal steps to protect your rights as a tenant.
Who can help me if I want to lodge an objection?
Various bodies and people can help you with an objection to a termination of tenancy for personal use. Here are some options:
Lawyer: A lawyer specialising in tenancy law is a good point of contact in such situations. A specialised lawyer can assess your rights as a tenant, evaluate the situation and support you in formulating an objection and taking legal action.
Tenants' association: In many countries, there are tenants' associations or tenant protection organisations that offer tenants support. They can help you with questions about tenancy law, provide information and support you with an objection to a termination of tenancy. Some tenants' associations even offer legal advice or representation by lawyers.
Social welfare office: If you need financial support to hire a lawyer, you can ask the social welfare office whether you are entitled to counselling assistance or legal aid. This assistance is intended to ensure that people on low incomes also have access to legal advice and representation in court.
Consumer advice centre: In some countries, consumer advice centres also offer support in rental matters. They can provide you with information and advice on your rights as a tenant and help you with an objection to a termination of tenancy.
It is advisable to contact one of these organisations at an early stage in order to obtain professional support with your objection to the owner-occupier termination. They can help you with the legal assessment of your situation and help you to protect your rights as a tenant.
Note: The content of this article does not constitute business, legal or tax advice. Please seek professional advice if you have any questions.
