Announcing Entry: Checklist for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should know when and how a landlord is allowed to enter the flat. This guide explains in plain language which notice periods are common, which legal bases apply and how you as a tenant can respond. We list typical situations (repairs, viewings, meter readings), show practical steps for documentation and name official contact points and forms. Read on to protect your privacy, recognise deadlines and use evidence and authorities effectively in disputes.

Entry rights and legal foundations

Landlords do not have an automatic right to enter the flat at any time. The duties and rights regarding maintenance, access to the flat and notice requirements arise from the German Civil Code (BGB), in particular the provisions on defects and landlord obligations.^[1] In emergencies a landlord can often act immediately; for routine visits prior notice and a legitimate purpose apply.

When must the landlord announce entry?

• Routine viewings: usually in good time beforehand, often 24–48 hours.
• Repair appointments: announcement with date and a time window, naming the company or craftsman.
• Meter readings: short notice and a justified reason, often a short time window.
• One‑off entry in emergencies: no prior announcement required, but later notification is sensible.

What should an effective announcement contain?

An announcement should state purpose, date, a time window, names of those attending and contact details. If possible, ask for a written confirmation or a message by email, SMS or letter. Photograph or save messages as evidence.

If you refuse entry: rights and responses

• Contact the landlord and propose an alternative date if the suggested time is unreasonable.
• Request a written explanation of the reason for entry if the purpose is unclear.
• Document reasons for refusal (e.g. illness, work commitments, justified doubts about the reason).

Evidence: what to collect

• All messages and announcements (emails, SMS, letters) saved as photos or PDFs.
• Photos of damage, timestamps and presence of third parties at the appointment.
• Date- and time-stamped notes of conversations and phone agreements.

FAQ

Does my landlord always have to announce entry?

No. In emergencies the landlord may act immediately. For routine appointments, however, reasonable advance notice should be given.

Are there legal minimum notice periods for viewings?

The BGB does not set a fixed period for all cases; however 24–48 hours is common for routine viewings. Proportionality and a legitimate purpose are decisive.^[1]

Where can I turn if there is a dispute?

In conflicts, the local Amtsgericht is often responsible; official information pages and court decisions can be consulted for legal guidance.^[2]

How-To

1. Check the announcement for purpose, date and names of visitors.
2. Ask for written details or confirmation if anything is unclear.
3. Arrange an alternative time if the proposed slot is unreasonable.
4. If problems persist, consider court action or seek advice from authorities.

Help and Support / Resources

• §§ 535–580a BGB
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions on tenancy law
• ZPO – procedural rules

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de