Statute of limitations expires at the end of the year? Or earlier?

Review of limitation periods in accounting

In the last quarter of the year, the accounting should be brought back into shape and unpaid invoices should be checked for their limitation periods. As is well known, the regular limitation period is 3 years, starting with the end of the year in which the claim arose in accordance with §§195, 199 I BGB. Titled claims, on the other hand, are subject to a limitation period of 30 years after the judgment becomes final.

What many citizens are not aware of, however, is that there are other deadlines that must be observed. Particularly in the case of rented properties, there can be a rude awakening if the property was intended as a retirement plan and a rent nomad has left the apartment in a post-war condition. If you take a look at §548 I BGB, it states: "The landlord's claims for compensation due to changes or deterioration of the rental property expire after six months." If you have incurred renovation costs due to the tenant moving out, you need to act quickly and seek help immediately if payment is refused.

Another exception are claims arising from freight transactions, which also expire earlier. In this case, the one-year period begins to run as soon as the freight is handed over.

If you are unsure whether your claim can still be enforced, do not hesitate to arrange a non-binding appointment to review your outstanding debts. We will be happy to help you!