Housing associations for the town of Witten

Probably the wrong place for this but here we go.

Basically our rent is too high. My German wife tootled off to the stadt thingy and asked where the fair rents place was. They told her Witten was basically too broke and didn't have one. There is one in Bochum which we just left. This seems unacceptable to me and perhaps even illegal - European commissions, justice etc. Does anyone know if this is legal or if there is something I can do about the rent as the place isn't bad but is definitely overpriced.

Thanks

You agreed to rent a place for a certain amount, and now you want the authorities to reduce it?

Give whatever notice is required in your rental contract and find another place.

Thanks both for your comments.

Yes I agreed to a rent the place and now I want to reduce the rent. Shame I didn't see all the hidden faults of it as we were very rushed when moving. Similar complaints emerging from the other German residents who rent other parts of it all of whom were fooled by the apparent advantages and somewhat surprised to find things were badly wrong. Faulty wiring, endless repairs, ancient doors, blocked old toilets, illegal electrical arrangements, promises given about things being fixed that never are.

Moving would be great but problematic and I consider it most days. Kids here at school and a host of other personal reasons.

So, if either of you know the answer to my actual question rather than simplistic catch-all solutions could you let me know

I actually just asked a question. Not only did I not provide an answer to your actual question, I provide no simplistic catch-all solution either.

So, thats all cleared up then.

You should join and consult these people: http://www.mieterverein-dortmund.de/.
A lot of problems with an apartment can entitle you to a rent reduction.

Thanks Kat