Allow Assistance Dogs for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany need assistance dogs to secure daily life, mobility and participation. If you, as a tenant, want to keep an assistance dog, systematic documentation helps: medical certificates, training proofs, photos and written requests to the landlord. This text clearly explains which proofs are useful, which legal bases apply and how to prepare formal steps such as a complaint about defects or, if necessary, court action. The guidance is practical, with concrete examples for letters to the landlord and for forms used by courts or authorities. This way you keep control over deadlines, evidence and costs in Germany and protect your rights as a tenant.

What tenants need to know

As a tenant you have rights from the German Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding landlord obligations and the use of the rented property (§§ 535–580a BGB).^[1] In case of dispute the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent, above that the regional court (Landgericht) and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) whose decisions matter for tenancy law.^[3]

Which proofs help

• Photos of the dog in daily situations, training and the home environment as evidence
• Medical certificates or doctor's notes that document the need for an assistance dog
• Confirmations from trainers or institutions about the dog's training and behavior
• Written request letters to the landlord with date and a clear consent request
• Witness statements from neighbors or carers confirming the dog's calm behavior

Practical steps

Proceed step by step: collect evidence, inform the landlord in writing and set deadlines. If the landlord refuses, check mediation options or prepare for court resolution. Court procedures follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).^[2]

• Assemble documents: medical certificate, training proofs and photos in an ordered file
• Send a written request to the landlord and set a clear deadline
• Send registered mail or obtain a receipt to prove delivery
• Observe deadlines and seek legal advice or mediation if necessary
• Final step: file a lawsuit or application at the local court if other means fail

If the landlord refuses

If the landlord refuses, request a written justification and check whether a proper balancing of interests was made. Present the evidence you have collected and offer reasonable conditions (e.g. liability insurance, proof of behavior). If the refusal seems unfounded, you can seek a court decision at the local court; consider costs and the possibility of legal aid (process cost assistance).^[4]

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's permission for an assistance dog?

In many cases landlord consent is required; however, for serious health reasons an obligation to tolerate the dog may exist if the balancing of interests favors you.

Which proofs are most important?

Medical certificates, training or certification records, and photos/videos documenting the dog’s behavior and use are especially helpful.

What does legal action cost?

Costs vary by value in dispute; consider legal aid (process cost assistance) and free initial advice options.

How-To

1. Collect documents: medical certificate, training proofs and photos
2. Send a written request to the landlord and set a deadline (e.g. 14 days)
3. Provide proof of delivery by registered mail or receipt
4. Seek advice and mediation if conflict arises
5. File a complaint or application at the local court as last resort

Help and Support / Resources

• §§ 535–580a BGB (Gesetze im Internet)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – official site
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – official site

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – official site
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – official site