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The staff of the housing referral office locates and lists new housing assets for the KMC and inspects every new rental for suitability in accordance with Air Force standards.
However, there are many things customers need to know about the HRO’s responsibilities and limitations.
“Tenants must understand, housing referral is not a party to their contract,” said Karen Leonard, housing director. “Ultimately, disputes that cannot be resolved through assisted mediation must be resolved through the German legal system.”
The following are a few important issues:
u Should mediation/negotiation between the tenant, the landlord and HRO fail, the tenant will be referred to the base legal office for assistance. The legal office cannot represent the tenant in court, but can provide interpretation of landlord/tenant laws and provide recommendations.
An alternate solution is to join the Tenant Protection Agency (Mieterschutzverein, 0631-67127) or the Tenant Assistance Agency e.V. (Mieterhilfe e.V., 0631-66443)
located in Kaiserslautern. For an annual fee of less than €100, a team of English-speaking attorneys will provide legal assistance and representation in court. There are certain restrictions so tenants must make sure they understand limitations.
u Recently there have been several cases of damage caused by pets identified during final clearance of off-base housing. Damage considered more than fair wear and tear could be quite extensive, requiring replacement of the damaged item.
“Keep in mind that labor and materials are extremely expensive in Germany and that your final bill could be more than you expect,” said Ellen Sutterfield, housing
referral section chief. “Purchasing a pet owner liability policy will save you many Euros and also will alleviate a lot of stress during your transition period.”
u Additionally, renter’s insurance is a must. Renter’s insurance protects renters from losing their personal property through fire, water damage, etc. Unfortunately, if landlords encounter severe damages to their property, they will increase the deposit for the next person moving in. According to German law, a landlord may charge a
maximum of three months’ rent as deposit. This is an extremely difficult situation as most tenants cannot afford these costs.
u Mildew can be another problem while living off base, if proper ventilation techniques are not used. Ensure furniture is not directly placed against walls; allow a free flow of air between walls and furniture. Open windows on a regular basis (a few minutes each day) to ensure proper ventilation.
u Be aware that a sale of premises does not affect the tenant’s contract. By law, the new owner assumes the position of the old landlord. The new landlord is the one who has to terminate the contract, but only if he or another family member intends to move in. Of course there are always a few deviations whereas the lease can be terminated. Tenants should visit HRO immediately so they can make a correct determination.
“We have been very successful in the past and saved many members the hardship and expense of moving,” said Ms. Sutterfield.
For the benefit of all off-base residents, a “We Care Brochure” was established. This brochure addresses many off-base housing issues tenants might encounter during their stay in Germany. Brochures are available at the main office in Vogelweh or at the satellite office on Ramstein, Bldg. 2410. Furthermore, HRO welcomes any recommendations on how to improve its handouts or the service it provides to its customers.
Call 489-6643/6659 to make an appointment.
(Courtesy of 435th Civil Engineer Group)
