Allowing Satellite Dish: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany wonder whether they may install a satellite dish and how a notice in the stairwell affects rights or obligations. This guide clearly explains your tenant rights, the landlord's duty to consent, possible restrictions in the house rules, and practical steps in case of disputes. You will learn when permission is required, what alternatives exist (e.g. balcony installation or communal system) and how to request written approval. I also describe which courts are responsible, which legal bases in the BGB apply and which documents or forms you should collect to strengthen your position. At the end you will find practical templates, deadline hints and tips for documenting damage or conversations with the landlord.

Rights and Obligations

Basically: tenancy law in §§ 535–580a BGB regulates landlord and tenant duties; consent for structural changes may be affected by this^[1]. Many house rules contain provisions on external appearance and use of common areas. If the installation alters the building's substance or affects other tenants, the landlord may be entitled to restrict interventions.

When is consent necessary?

• If the installation requires permanent alterations to the facade or roof structure.
• If the house rules regulate or prohibit the installation of antennas.
• If common areas are affected (e.g. roof, balcony, facade).

Practical Steps in Case of Disputes

Before considering legal action, ask the landlord for permission in writing and propose technical solutions (e.g. non-invasive mounts or cable routing). Specify deadlines, offer compensations (e.g. removal at move-out) and keep meeting notes and photos. If the landlord does not respond or unreasonably refuses, you can consider legal options; jurisdiction and procedural rules are found in the ZPO^[2].

How-To

1. Check your rental agreement and house rules for antenna or facade provisions.
2. Prepare a written request to the landlord with a technical plan, mounting type and removal commitment at move-out.
3. Collect evidence: photos of the installation site, quotes from craftsmen and correspondence with the landlord.
4. If necessary: set a deadline and seek legal advice or consider filing a claim at the local court.
5. Document the condition after installation and any damage for final inspection.

FAQ

Can my landlord generally prohibit the installation of a satellite dish?

A general prohibition may be included in the house rules, but it must be weighed against individual interests and the principle of proportionality; legal bases are found in the BGB^[1].

Who decides in a dispute: local court or higher?

Tenancy disputes usually start at the local court (Amtsgericht); higher instances are the regional court (Landgericht) and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice for fundamental questions^[3].

Are there official forms for lawsuits or applications?

Forms and procedural guidance for civil proceedings (e.g. statements of claim) and jurisdictions can be found via justice authorities and in the ZPO^[2].

Key Takeaways

• Written consent is the safest way to avoid later disputes.
• Documentation (photos, quotes, correspondence) strengthens your legal position.
• For court matters, the local court, regional court and the Federal Court of Justice are the responsible instances.

Help and Support / Resources

• § 535 BGB: Duties of the landlord
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) - Information
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Official website

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet - BGB § 535
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet - ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - Official Website
4. [4] German Justice Portal - Information on Courts