Topics at a glance

The cheesecake queen from Saefkow-Platz

Cozy, delicious, and idyllic to boot—Plötners Café on Anton-Saefkow-Platz is a true insider tip for connoisseurs and anyone who loves homemade baked goods.

An idyll on the doorstep

Lush greenery and colorful flowers – the front gardens of Möllendorffstraße 69 are a valuable contribution to the neighborhood. Behind this lies the work of three tenants who have been maintaining the green spaces on a voluntary basis for ten years.

Correction to the article “Home emergency call at the touch of a button”

In a previous post about the Johanniter offer for HOWOGE tenants, the discount was misrepresented. We apologize for this and would like to correct the information here.

So that everything runs smoothly

Neighborhood helpers and (mobile) caretakers are on duty day and night in almost all HOWOGE neighborhoods. A special service that makes everyday life easier, safer, and more personal.

“More from our own hands – for better service in everyday life”

A conversation with Melanie Seuring, authorized signatory at HOWOGE.

Stricter rules for organic waste

New regulations for the separation of organic waste have been in effect nationwide since May 1. An overview of the background, consequences, and separation rules.

What motivates tenants?

The HOWOGE Tenants' Council wants to know more about this and is therefore planning a survey among all tenants. The survey will begin this summer and represents a great opportunity to help shape the committee's work.

On a neighborhood tour through Fischerhüttenstraße in Zehlendorf

Experience urban living where tree-lined avenues and cultural monuments meet modern architecture – in a neighborhood that perfectly combines social interaction, city life and recreation.

Aktuell Mieterbeiratswahlen – jetzt mitmachen!

Important information on elevated Legionella levels in drinking water

Your health and comprehensive information are very important to us, so that you can also protect yourself and act appropriately. We have implemented various measures to eradicate Legionella. We are working closely with the health department and specialist companies to this end. We have compiled the status of these measures as well as all important questions and answers for you.

What does a foreman actually do?

Cynthia Barnow gives a brief insight.

This is what the Tenants' Council 2025 is concerned about

The HOWOGE Tenants' Council has entered the new year with three major concerns. It has one primary goal in mind: to better represent the interests of tenants. An interview with Tenants' Council member Holger Sykulla.

Volunteering in the neighborhood – exchange and ideas

The HOWOGE Volunteer Day on April 10th annually invites all active volunteers and interested parties to the Wohnungsmacherei in Lichtenberg. For those who would like to get involved in the future, existing projects will be presented and new ideas will be gathered.

On a neighborhood tour through Karlshorst

Lots of greenery, lots of culture and a crucial place in German history: Karlshorst is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year and has a lot to tell.

Change electricity provider

There are around 1,400 electricity providers in Germany. Comparing and switching tariffs can save a lot of money and, to top it all off, do something for the environment.

A safe space for children

The Guardian Angel House in Hohenschönhausen is like a second home for many children – and a truly feel-good place.

“Kick it like Thermo” – A sports festival for the whole neighborhood!

On May 23, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 7 p.m., things will be getting sporty in the Thermometersiedlung! With a big soccer and basketball tournament, a family neighborhood run, and lots of music and fun, we'll celebrate the opening of the newly renovated streetball courts on Réaumur and Fahrenheitstrasse, which were renovated by HOWOGE.

Better safe than sorry

Everyone should have these insurances.

2025 – that’s new, that’s different

We are already in the middle of it and yet still at the beginning. The year 2025 is moving forward in leaps and bounds and we wanted to know: What is different this year than last? Here are six points you should keep in mind.

A new place for dreams and talents: “Anna – The Little Circus” opens its arena

The neighborhood is cordially invited to experience the first performance at an open house on December 6th.

Kiezportrait Panketal

Between Moorlinse and Schlosspark, just beyond the Berlin city limits, the Panketal invites you to explore.

Proper protection against burglaries

During the dark season, the number of burglaries increases significantly. Here are the most important tips for more security and protection in your own four walls.

"We have influence, but limited"

Since 2016, Berlin's tenant councils have been working on a voluntary basis to represent the interests of tenants. But their right to co-determination is limited, explains member Sebastian Lange in an interview.

“Every rent ensures a stable neighborhood”

Three questions to HOWOGE asset manager Stefan Junker on the topic of rent and rent increases.

Blumenhaus Neumann

It is now indispensable for tenants at Mühlengrund in Neu-Hohenschönhausen: daily fresh flowers and plants from a small family business.

My contact to HOWOGE

Energy remains expensive – saving is worth it

In 2024, the federal government's tax relief will end, VAT will return to 19 percent and CO₂ surcharges will rise. This means that energy costs will continue to be high, even if prices have fallen slightly overall. Tip: Proper heating and ventilation can have a positive impact on costs and the climate.

More space for neighborhoods in HOWOGE neighborhoods

The HOWOGE KIEZORTE offer local tenants the opportunity to meet, exchange ideas and find help in everyday life. They promote a sense of community and support good cooperation through regular activities. Contact points such as the Kiezcontainer in Hohenschönhausen, the Blue Box in Buch and the Komşukeller as well as the Komşuhütte in Kreuzberg have existed for years. Another Kiezort will open in Reinickendorf in 2025.

Apartment swapping is worthwhile

Anyone looking for a smaller or larger apartment or who wants to change districts can offer their apartment for exchange. Tenants of the six state-owned housing companies have the opportunity to exchange apartments with each other throughout Berlin - with the same net rent. Potential exchange apartments can be advertised here: inberlinwohnen.de

Precaution and behavior in severe weather

Severe thunderstorms, heavy rain and storms can occur at any time of the year.

Tenant Council Karlshorst

With the new housing allocation law, Berlin's tenants' councils have more rights and are responsible for smaller neighborhoods. This gives the representatives more options in their work, reports the Karlshorst tenants' council.

neighborhood walk in Moabit

Relaxation like in Bali, mini golf under old trees and a museum full of letters - Moabit is a neighborhood with many surprises. Let's go on a neighborhood tour!

Hello Melanie Beyer!

Regional, delicious and with heart. Coffee from Erkner, honey from Müggelheim, homemade and home-baked goods are available from Melanie Beyer in the Müggelheim Presso Café & Lounge (Fri.–Sun., 8.30 a.m.–5 p.m.).

Something is growing together here

In the courtyard of Maximilianstrasse in Lichtenberg, neighbors tend a vegetable garden together. During regular gardening sessions and planting workshops, participants learn a lot and get to know each other.

“Modernization is a contribution to climate protection”

Repair, renovation, modernization – in an interview, the HOWOGE expert explains the differences and why modernization measures are good for the climate.

Neighbourhood walk in Spandau

A trip like to another city - Spandau offers lots of greenery, lots of water and lots of history along the Havel. Seven stops to discover and relax.

Strong community Mellenseestraße

There is no chance of getting bored in the Mellenseestrasse senior citizens' community: bingo, book readings and your own bench in the zoo - that's how nice neighborhood can be.

Together against drought

With a watering sponsorship, tenants can work together to combat the drought in the neighborhood, supported by HOWOGE. An example from the Mehringkiez.

Participation: I’m joining in!

The word "participation" comes from Latin and means something like "participating". Here, Berliners can have a say, help shape things, and get involved.

“There must be real listening and negotiation.”

Participating in participation procedures is one of the legal duties of the tenants' council. Two members explain in an interview how it works and why it is important.

Cannabis: Smoking weed is (not) allowed here

Cannabis has been legal in Germany since April of this year. However, there are a few rules to follow when it comes to consumption and possession. An overview.

Hello Kian Mehmandoost!

Kian's Späti in the Thermometersiedlung offers special sweets from all over the world and unusual drinks - six days a week until 11 p.m.

Where to put it?

Blue, brown, yellow, black – into the bin. But which? We solve mysterious garbage cases and give valuable separation tips.

Interview on interim consumption information

Many tenants receive monthly consumption information. In an interview, HOWOGE expert Daniel Hernández García reveals what this means and why landlords are obliged to do so.

What do I need a permit for?

Solar energy from the balcony? A new pet? Renovations? A permit is required for these changes to the living environment.

“We have a lot planned this year”

From rent increases to new construction to tenant apps – the HOWOGE tenant council is committed to the cross-neighbourhood concerns of tenants and would like to have even more say in the future.

„Nachhaltig sein heißt auch sozialverträglich bleiben“

Ende April wird der Nachhaltigkeitsbericht der HOWOGE veröffentlicht. Im Interview spricht die Nachhaltigkeitsbeauftragte der HOWOGE über die Ziele und Maßnahmen, die dem Unternehmen besonders am Herzen liegen.

Lots of green, lots of history, lots to experience – Kiezportrait Altglienicke

Seven tips for the southeast of Berlin: Lots of greenery, lots of history, lots to experience. Altglienicke is worth a visit for young and old. Let's go - enjoy the neighborhood stroll around Anne-Frank-Strasse.

Our neighborhood caretaker: The all-rounder from Fennpfuhl

At six in the morning, Markus Endter sets off for the large Berlin settlement at Fennpfuhl. Driving around objects, checking on everything, collecting rubbish, documenting damage or simply repairing things in an uncomplicated manner: Endter has been working as a neighborhood caretaker in Berlin's oldest prefabricated housing estate in the former eastern part of the city since September.

Designing neighborhoods together

Anyone who takes part in the tenant advisory board can make a big difference. Tenants and landlady appreciate the good cooperation. In the interview, both sides talk about motives and wishes.

Why is elevator repair so time consuming?

In order to maintain the elevators in our buildings, we rely on external elevator companies and sometimes special fitters. Unfortunately, there are currently not enough skilled workers to always carry out orders immediately.

Ratgeber rund ums Heizen und Lüften

Versatile and rich in contrast – Marzahn neighborhood portrait

The Märkische Allee runs for kilometers through Berlin's northeast to the Berlin border. There are green gems and historical sites on its cross and side streets. People meet here to do sports and stroll.

Neighborhood love

Anne Petersdorff has been making soft ice cream herself since 2018 - vegan, fair trade and in Demeter quality. This hardly exists in Berlin so far.

More service for you now!

We want to offer you the best possible service. We are currently in the process of making the service even more modern for you and optimizing the processes. That's why we have reorganized our housing stock.

Tidying up with heart and ideas

Nobody likes waste. And nobody likes to clean up. But with creative approaches, humanity and working together as a team, cleanliness in the neighborhood can be achieved. A look into Berlin's residential areas - with good prospects.

“You notice an enormous can-do mentality”

The new tenant council is full of enthusiasm and actively advocates for the cross-district interests of HOWOGE tenants. In the interview, chairman Mathias Voigt talks about key topics and boundaries of responsibility.

Neighborhood love

Bastian Bienlein runs the boutique fitness club in the Lichtenberg district. You can train there in a nice atmosphere; where the focus is not just on training, but also on community and mental well-being.

Tips and tricks: This is how I get my bike ready for summer

Cycling is actually always a good idea. It is more environmentally friendly than the car and cheaper than the gym. But if the bike has been in the basement all winter, it's better to do a little check-up before you set off. How it works? Read five-step instructions here.

Help with rent debts

High operating costs, a personal crisis or other factors – financial difficulties can affect anyone. Please talk to us. We will work with you to find solutions to help you pay your rent debts and stay in your apartment. We also support you with applications for social benefits.

How exactly do the price brakes for gas, heat and electricity work?

We have summarized the most important things for you.

Make space for new things

At the BSR Kieztag you can get rid of your bulky waste free of charge. Here you can find all the information and dates near you.

Be careful with “alternative” heating methods!

Many people are concerned about energy supply and high costs. For fear of freezing, some people look for alternatives to heating their apartment. But be careful: what sounds good can quickly become expensive and dangerous.

Mini photovoltaic systems on the balcony

Are you a tenant at HOWOGE and would like to install a mini photovoltaic system on your balcony? Basically, HOWOGE is pleased that you are interested in alternative ideas for generating electricity and would like to make a personal contribution to the energy transition. However, growing such plants on your balcony also involves some risks that you must take into account in advance.

50 years of Fennpfuhl

The municipal housing company HOWOGE is already planning and building the Fennpfuhl district of tomorrow.

News from the Mehringkiez

The Mehringkiez in Berlin is a district full of life and adventure. With its diverse community and numerous local clubs and initiatives, the neighborhood offers a variety of leisure opportunities for its residents. We have an overview of the most exciting offers:

Relief measures for tenants

The state of Berlin and the responsible offices will continue to support you, as will the responsible tenant advice centers in the offices.

During the year consumption information

Landlords and property managers are obliged to provide residents with consumption information throughout the year, up to monthly. Here you will find the most important questions and answers.

Credit for the smoke alarm rental costs

At the end of the year we have good news for tenants! As announced some time ago, you will receive a credit from HOWOGE for the rental costs of the smoke detectors.

Information on advance payments December 2022

For December 2022, HOWOGE's advance payment for heating costs to the utility companies will be subsequently covered by the federal government.

Simply swap apartments at HOWOGE

Did you know that you can swap your apartment if you are looking for a smaller or larger one?

Free advice in the Kiezcontainer

In the Kiezcontainer at Anna-Ebermann-Straße 6 in Hohenschönhausen you can now get advice on family, energy, finances, official matters and more. We will also help you with any questions you may have about your apartment. Help is offered by HOWOGE and several associations. The Citizens' Office also has consultation hours twice a month.

High-deck development: living in a historic building

The high-deck settlement in Neukölln is an architectural specialty. When you think of the number of bridges, you think of Venice: winding paths lead above streets and traffic from block to block.

With a lot of enthusiasm and curiosity about the matter

The new tenant council is in the starting blocks: The ten members harmonize with each other and are now gradually getting used to their voluntary work.

Neighborhood love

Mia Lingott is a physiotherapist and osteopath with heart and soul. She has been running her practice in Alt-Hohenschönhausen since 2018.

Green living

Electricity from your own roof, sparkling drinking water at the touch of a button and strategically planted courtyards: HOWOGE's new living standard is not only good for the climate, but also for people. You save threefold: energy, CO₂ and money.

Reinickendorf worth seeing - a neighborhood portrait

The oldest tree, the oldest restaurant, the first high-rise building in the city: Reinickendorf is home to superlative excursion destinations.

Hello neighbour

Dawid Zalewski's pizza is square and made with a lot of love. He is happy about every guest in his pizzeria PizzaLovers in Fennpfuhl.

Between the park and the slabs – neighborhood portrait of Fennpfuhl

Anyone who strolls around the first large prefabricated housing estate in East Germany will discover numerous fountains, beach volleyball courts with the finest sand and the largest Asian market in Germany.

Hello neighbour

Sigrun Lucht runs the largest owner-managed bookstore in Berlin - and also offers great events. It's worth stopping by the zoo in Friedrichsfelde.

Blooming field of lights - a neighborhood portrait

In the south-west of Berlin, past and future merge: there are, among other things, magnificent buildings, 70s architecture - and a hill steeped in history to discover.