Why Reserves are Essential
Many private landlords rely on "nothing major will happen." But heating systems, roofs, and windows have life cycles. Those who don't build reserves suddenly face five-figure costs.
Typical Maintenance Costs
- Roof renovation: €20,000-40,000
- Heating system: €8,000-15,000
- Windows: €500-800 per piece
Calculating Reserves
Rule of thumb: set aside €1-2 per square meter per month. For an 80 square meter apartment, that's €80-160 monthly.
📌 Legal Precedent
BGH, VIII ZR 13/17: Landlord must perform maintenance, even if reserves are lacking.
💡 Pro Tip
Always put reserves in a separate account so they won't be "consumed" in daily life.
Conclusion
Reserves aren't optional, but mandatory. They secure your ability to act and protect against nasty surprises. Those who save consistently can handle repairs stress-free.