Nettokaltmieten

Nettokaltmiete, often referred to as Nettokaltmiete or Kaltmiete, is the base rent charged for the use of living space without heating costs and without operating costs. It is the fixed amount agreed in the rental contract for the dwelling itself and does not include additional charges. The term is used to distinguish the base rent from other costs that may be billed separately.

Nettokaltmiete versus Warmmiete: Warmmiete represents the total monthly rent, including operating costs and, where applicable, heating costs. Operating costs (Nebenkosten) cover services and expenses related to the building, such as water, waste disposal, building maintenance, elevator usage, and property management. Heating costs (Heizkosten) cover the consumption-based energy for heating and hot water; these can be billed separately or as part of Nebenkosten depending on the contract and local practice.

Billing and settlement: Tenants typically pay a monthly Nettokaltmiete plus monthly advances for Nebenkosten and Heizkosten. At the end of the year, landlords issue a Betriebskostenabrechnung (operating cost settlement) that reconciles actual costs with the advances. If the actual costs are higher or lower than the prepayments, a supplementary payment or refund is due.

Legal context: In Germany, tenancy is governed by the Civil Code (BGB) and regional practices reflected in Mietspiegel guides. Contracts should clearly specify what is included in the Nettokaltmiete, how Nebenkosten and Heizkosten are calculated, and the settlement procedure. Differences in terminology can affect total cost comparisons, so clarity in the contract is essential.

Practical note: When comparing apartments, distinguish between Nettokaltmiete and Warmmiete, and review expected Nebenkosten and Heizkosten to estimate total monthly housing expenses.