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Gas: Setting Up Your Contract

Only needed if the apartment has gas heating or a gas hob. Check your tenancy agreement first.

WHAT TO DO

What is it and when to do it?

A gas contract is only needed if your apartment has gas central heating or a gas hob and those costs are not included in the rent (Kaltmiete). As with electricity: the Grundversorger connects you automatically on move-in day, so your first step is photographing the gas meter reading the moment you get the keys.

Where and how much does it cost?

Switching provider is free and takes 5–10 minutes online on Verivox.de or Check24.de. The gas meter is usually in the basement, boiler room, or a utility cupboard in the hallway — ask your landlord. You’ll need the meter number (Zählernummer) to sign up.

Common mistakes

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Max recommends:

Saw 'Warmmiete' in the contract and still took out a gas contract with the Grundversorger. Paid double for three months before I noticed. Always read the tenancy agreement carefully before signing any energy contract.

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Lea recommends:

Turned on the gas boiler without checking it — a week later found out the ventilation wasn't working. That's life-threatening. At move-in, always request the boiler's maintenance record and don't operate any gas appliance until the landlord confirms it's safe.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know if I need my own gas contract? ▾

Check your tenancy agreement: look for the words Warmmiete or Heizkosten. If heating and hot water are included in the rent, you don't need a separate gas contract — the landlord handles billing. If the contract states Kaltmiete without a heating cost component, you need your own gas contract.

What is the Grundversorger for gas? ▾

Under §36 EnWG every area must have a default gas supplier that is obliged to serve any household. As with electricity, they connect you automatically when you move in — at the highest tariff. It's worth comparing alternatives on Verivox or Check24.

Is it dangerous to turn on gas appliances yourself when moving in? ▾

Yes. Do not switch on a gas boiler, water heater or hob without a prior safety check. Ask your landlord for the Wartungsprotokoll (maintenance record) and confirm the ventilation is working properly. If in doubt, call a certified engineer — this is the landlord's responsibility.

OFFICIAL SOURCES