Approve Stairlift: Tenant Guide for Germany
Many tenants in Germany need a stairlift due to mobility limitations. This text explains in clear, tenant-friendly language when a landlords written consent is required, which documents and photos help, which social-law benefits may apply and how to request approval with a sample letter. The guide is aimed at tenants without legal training and shows concrete practical cases, common landlord objections and sensible next steps up to judicial clarification.
When do tenants need consent?
General rule: Structural changes in a rented apartment or in shared stairwells usually require the landlords consent; this follows from the general obligations of the tenancy agreement and tenancy law under the German Civil Code (BGB).[1] For subsidies to adapt the apartment, social law (e.g. benefits under SGB XI) may be relevant; check possible funding entitlements early.[2]
Practical cases and sample letter
Case A Treppenlift inside, apartment access
If the stairlift is only installed inside on the apartment stairs and the structural interventions are minor, a clear statement of need, photos, a cost estimate and an offer to restore the condition at move-out often help. Send a written request with a deadline to the landlord.
- Letter: Describe the need, medical reasons and desired installation dates.
- Evidence: Medical certificate, photos of the stairs, measurements and cost estimate.
- Restoration: Offer to restore the condition at move-out.
Sample letter (short)
Subject: Request for written consent to install a stairlift
Dear Ms./Mr. [Landlord Name],
due to my reduced mobility I request permission to install a stairlift on the indoor stairs to my apartment at [address]. A medical certificate is attached. I enclose a cost estimate and details on removal. Please reply in writing by [date, e.g. 14 days].
Sincerely,
[Tenant Name]
Funding, grants and official bases
In many cases cost contributions from the care insurance or other social benefits are possible; check specific entitlement rules under social law and talk early with the care insurance or responsible social agency so that cost commitments are clarified before installation.[2]
What to do if consent is denied?
If the landlord refuses consent, request the reasoning in writing and check whether the refusal is justified (e.g. structural danger, monument protection). If no agreement is reached, tenancy and civil-law steps are possible; tenancy disputes are decided at local courts (Amtsgerichte), with higher appeals to regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice.[3][4]
FAQ
- Do I always need the landlords consent?
- Yes, structural changes generally require the landlords consent; the court decides in case of dispute.
- Who pays for the stairlift?
- It depends: tenant, landlord, care insurance or funding programs may be involved; check funding entitlements early.
- Can I remove the stairlift when moving out?
- That is often possible if a removal agreement was made in advance and the original state is restored.
How-To
- Step 1: Prepare a complete letter with a medical certificate, photos and a cost estimate.
- Step 2: Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days) for the landlords response.
- Step 3: Clarify potential subsidies with the care insurance before installation.
- Step 4: If refused, consider legal action and possibly sue at the local court.
