Assistance Dog Funding for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany need help financing and legally securing the right to an assistance dog. This text explains in plain language which steps tenants should take: from medical evidence to applying for Eingliederungshilfe or other funding bodies, to communicating with the landlord and the courts. You will receive practical tips on documentation, references to relevant laws and examples of common mistakes that can delay or deny applications. The goal is that you as a tenant know your rights, avoid errors and obtain funding without unnecessary legal risks.

When do tenants need permission or consent?

Tenants often do not need separate "permission" from the landlord if the assistance dog is part of participation due to a disability; however, the obligations from the tenancy agreement and general tenancy law under the BGB are legally relevant^[1]. In disputes, the competent Amtsgericht decides first, possibly with appeals to the Landgericht or BGH^[3]. If funding or Eingliederungshilfe under SGB IX is required, contact with the responsible social benefits authority is also necessary^[2].

Important legal bases

• The Civil Code (BGB) regulates landlord and tenant obligations.
• SGB IX and Eingliederungshilfe are central legal bases for funding.
• The Amtsgericht is the first instance for tenancy disputes; higher courts may follow.

Common mistakes and how to avoid them

Many rejections or delays are caused by missing or incomplete documents, poor communication with the landlord or incorrect assumptions about funding options. Avoid these mistakes systematically:

• Incomplete applications for Eingliederungshilfe: submit medical reports, purpose of use and cost estimates.
• Missing documentation to the landlord: describe usage, training and hygiene concepts.
• Ignoring deadlines: respond to rejections or requests within the stated timeframes.

Forms and applications — which ones and when to use them?

There is no uniform federal form for an assistance dog; relevant applications include:

• "Application for Eingliederungshilfe (SGB IX)" — submit to the responsible social or Eingliederungshilfe authority; example: application for cost coverage for dog and training with medical certificate.
• Application to the nursing care fund or responsible benefits office — if benefits under SGB XI or other rehabilitation are relevant.
• Written notification to the landlord with attached evidence — no specific statutory template, but sample texts from the BMJ can help.

Practical steps for tenants

1. Collect all medical records, certificates and a cost/training plan for the dog.
2. File the application for Eingliederungshilfe with the responsible authority and attach cost estimates.
3. Inform the landlord in writing and include supporting documents.
4. Address issues like co-tenant allergies or house rules early.
5. If denied: file an objection and consider court action at the Amtsgericht.

Communication with landlord and neighbors

Stay factual: explain the need, provide medical evidence and offer solutions (e.g., cleaning routines). If the landlord objects, request a written justification and document all conversations.

FAQ

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

Not always; with proven disability-related need the dog can be part of participation, but it is recommended to inform the landlord in writing and present evidence.

Who pays for purchase and training?

Possible payers are Eingliederungshilfe (SGB IX), nursing care funds or other social benefit providers, depending on the individual entitlement.

What if the authority rejects my application?

File an objection against the decision and consider legal action at the Amtsgericht; obtain expert advice and submit supplementary evidence.

How-To

1. Gather medical evidence and a cost plan for the assistance dog.
2. Submit the application for Eingliederungshilfe to the responsible authority.
3. Notify your landlord in writing and attach the supporting documents.
4. If necessary, file a timely objection and prepare documents for court.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
• SGB IX — Eingliederungshilfe on Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Sozialgesetzbuch IX (SGB IX) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Bundesgerichtshof