Einliegerwohnung (self-contained flat)
In some cases, a “Einfamilienhaus” can also be comprised of two residential units, where the subordinated apartment is called a “Einliegerwohnung”, or self-contained flat. Here it does not matter whether the subordinate apartment is separated from the main apartment through separate entrances or the location on different floors, as long as its size does not exceed 80% of the main apartment’s. However, if the subordinated apartment has its own sanitary and permanent cooking facilities, the whole building will be considered a “Zweifamilienhaus”, as defined in the German tax law. “Einliegerwohnungen” are usually only for rent, but nowadays the demand for them is very low due to generally higher living standards. When renting a “Einliegerwohnung”, however, it is important to be aware of different laws and regulations that apply to this specific kind of housing, specifically regarding the termination of the contract.
