Accessible Bathroom in Old Buildings: Tenant Guide Germany
Many tenants in Germany face the challenge of planning an accessible bathroom in an old building. Often spaces are small, pipes are outdated and landlord consent is required. This guide explains in clear steps what rights tenants have, when the landlord must consent, which funding options under the Housing Promotion Act are relevant and how to check financing options. You will receive a practical checklist for preparations, necessary forms and tips for documenting defects. The goal is to empower you as a tenant to conduct renovation discussions objectively, meet deadlines and understand legal steps if needed. I describe how to apply for grants, negotiate with the landlord and involve the local court if disputes arise.
What Tenants Need to Know
In Germany, the law distinguishes between maintenance work and modernizations that increase the value of the dwelling. For tenants, the landlord's maintenance obligations and the rules for modernization notices are particularly relevant; the basic rules are found in the Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a[1]. Before a conversion, tenants should document the intended measure in writing and check whether it counts as necessary maintenance or as modernization.
Approval, Consent and Costs
If your change is structurally significant, the landlord usually needs to give consent. For necessary repairs (e.g., mold removal, faulty heating) the landlord is generally obliged to carry them out. For modernizations, the landlord may pass some costs onto the rent within certain limits.
Practical Steps Before Renovation
- Put in writing which adjustments you need and why.
- Request a written consent or an alternative proposal from the landlord.
- Check available funding and responsibilities under the Housing Promotion Act.[2]
- Record deadlines and appointments in writing, e.g. inspection dates with craftsmen.
Financing: Grants and Practical Options
Grants for barrier-reducing measures are available at federal and state levels; there are often subsidies, low-interest loans or tax relief. Whether you are eligible for coverage by social benefit agencies or rehabilitation providers depends on your personal situation. Ask specifically about grants for barrier-free conversions and check whether you can apply for state programs.[2]
Financing Checklist for Tenants
- Ask the landlord in writing which costs they will cover.
- Find out about state grants and social benefits.
- Obtain cost estimates from at least two tradespeople.
- Keep all offers, invoices and correspondence.
If the Landlord Refuses
If the landlord remains opposed despite reasonable grounds, tenants can consider whether a court order is possible or whether alternative solutions are feasible. Local courts (Amtsgerichte) are typically responsible for rental disputes; the Federal Court of Justice decides fundamental legal questions.[3]
FAQ
- Do I need the landlord's consent for an accessible bathroom as a tenant?
- Yes, for structural alterations beyond simple repairs the landlord's written consent is usually required.
- Who pays for the conversion?
- It depends: for maintenance the landlord pays; for modernization costs can be shared or subsidized. Individual assistance may be available.
- Who can I contact if the landlord refuses?
- You can seek legal advice and, if necessary, involve the local court; fundamental questions may be decided by the Federal Court of Justice.
How-To
- Step 1: Create an inventory and take photos of defects and tight spaces.
- Step 2: Send a written request to the landlord with a concrete renovation plan and cost estimates.
- Step 3: Check funding options and prepare required grant applications.
- Step 4: If refused, review legal options (advice, mediation, lawsuit).
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code (BGB) - official text
- Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) - official text
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - official site
