5 Tips: How to Save on Your Nebenkosten (Utility/Operating Costs)

Nebenkosten: Getting the second rent under control

In Germany, Nebenkosten (utility/operating costs) average 2.88 euros per square metre — for a 70-square-metre flat, that is over 200 euros a month. Many tenants accept the annual back-payment as unavoidable. But with simple measures and a careful review of the statement, you can often save several hundred euros a year.

Tip 1: Check every statement thoroughly

The most important saving tip first: check every Nebenkosten statement carefully. As we showed in our article on the most common errors, one in two statements is faulty. Pay particular attention to:

• Non-apportionable costs such as administration, maintenance, and repairs
• The correct allocation key — is the square-metre figure right?
• Unexplained cost increases compared with the previous year
• Duplicate billing items

With KlarMiet, you can upload your Nebenkosten statement and receive a detailed analysis within minutes. The AI automatically checks for all common errors and calculates your savings potential.

Tip 2: Reduce heating costs deliberately

Heating costs are by far the largest item in the Nebenkosten — often 40 to 50 percent of the total. Even small changes bring noticeable savings:

• Ventilate correctly: Air the room in short bursts (wide open) instead of leaving windows tilted — this saves up to 15 percent of heating energy.
• Lower the temperature: Each degree less saves about 6 percent of heating costs. 20 degrees in the living room and 18 degrees in the bedroom are optimal.
• Keep radiators clear: Furniture and curtains in front of radiators significantly reduce heat output.
• Use thermostatic valves: Programmable thermostats automatically lower the temperature when you are not at home.

Tip 3: Reduce water consumption

Water and wastewater costs can be reduced by simple means:

• Water-saving showerhead: Reduces water use when showering by up to 50 percent with the same comfort.
• Dishwasher instead of washing by hand: Modern dishwashers use considerably less water than washing up by hand.
• Fill the washing machine fully: Use the full capacity and choose lower temperatures — 30 degrees is enough for normally soiled laundry.
• Repair dripping taps: A dripping tap wastes up to 5,000 litres a year. Report this to the landlord — the repair is their responsibility.

Tip 4: Use your right to inspect documents

You have a legal right to inspect all the receipts on which the Nebenkosten statement is based. Use this right actively. Checking is especially worthwhile for:

• Large items such as heating, water, and building insurance
• Cost increases compared with the previous year
• Unclear items or catch-all labels

Request access to the documents in writing and document anything conspicuous.

Tip 5: Adjust advance payments regularly

If you regularly have large back-payments or credit balances, you should have the monthly advance payments adjusted. In the case of a credit balance, you have the right to a reduction. This way you keep more money each month and avoid granting the landlord an interest-free loan.

Conclusion: Acting proactively pays off

The combination of conscious consumption and a careful review of the statement can save you 300 to 500 euros a year. Start by checking your most recent Nebenkosten statement — KlarMiet makes it easy for you.