Story perspectives

German Court Upholds Heating, Denies Cooling; Merz Plans Code Reform

7/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

German tenancy law guarantees heating but no statutory cooling right, exposing renters during record summer heat.
The Federal Court of Justice ruled tenants can demand indoor warmth of 20–24 °C but does not grant a cooling entitlement.
After a June 2026 heat wave that killed over 5,000 people, Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to amend building codes for climate-resilient standards, noting that 75 % of housing stock predates 1990 and lacks overheating limits.

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Story summary

German tenancy law guarantees heating but no statutory cooling right, exposing renters during record summer heat.
The Federal Court of Justice ruled tenants can demand indoor warmth of 20–24 °C but does not grant a cooling entitlement.
After a June 2026 heat wave that killed over 5,000 people, Chancellor Friedrich Merz pledged to amend building codes for climate-resilient standards, noting that 75 % of housing stock predates 1990 and lacks overheating limits.