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Darmstadt updates comparative rents for 2026 – obligation for households to provide information
Darmstadt. written survey for the new Qualified Rent Index 2026 will begin in the science city of Darmstadt . As Mayor Barbara Akdeniz announced, the survey serves to update the local comparative rents and is being conducted in cooperation with the Institute for Housing and the Environment (IWU) . The new rent index is scheduled for publication in June 2026
"The qualified rent index has proven itself in Darmstadt as a recognized benchmark and decision-making tool for both tenants and landlords," said Akdeniz. "It also provides valuable services to authorities, courts, and institutions in assessing rental issues."
Created according to scientific principles
The city commissioned the IWU to carry out the project following a public tender. The Darmstadt-based research institute combines scientific expertise in the fields of housing, urban development, and energy efficiency , and ensures a representative data basis .
in writing, as before, via a questionnaire that can also be completed online mandatory , as the 2021 Rent Index Reform Act a nationwide obligation to provide information . Households contacted are therefore required to provide the information – violations can be punished with a fine .
Process and participation
First, tenants surveyed. Participation is free of charge ; the questionnaire can be returned by mail. This will be followed – approximately three weeks later – by a survey of landlords , who will be asked to provide additional information on energy-related or other modernizations .
During the survey period, a hotline and an email address be available to answer any questions. Information and access details will be available on the IWU website at www.iwu.de/aktuell .
Significance of the Qualified Rent Index
The qualified rent index creates transparency in the housing market and helps legal peace between tenants and landlords . It is based on Sections 558c and 558d of the German Civil Code (BGB). Unlike a simple rent index, the qualified rent index is compiled according to recognized scientific principles and on a representative data basis .
The current rent index for 2022 , updated in 2024, is based on 2021 data and has proven its worth in practice. The new survey aims to ensure that Darmstadt continues to have access to current and reliable comparative rents .
(DARMSTADT – RED/PSD/stip/dk)
