Germany's inner cities are enjoying a renaissance but as these areas become more expensive, housing within them is in danger of turning into a luxury only few can afford. In Berlin, Hamburg and Munich there is danger that deprived areas, like those in London and Paris, emerge. Although numerous tools - urban zoning, planning regulations, contract law and criminal sanctions - are available to support German planners to develop stable and diverse communities, these could be further strengthened. The author reveals how and suggests legal changes.