Assistance Dogs in Condos: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany wonder whether they may keep an assistance dog in a condominium owners' association (WEG) apartment and how to finance the purchase and ongoing costs. This article explains clearly which rights vulnerable persons have, what duties towards the building management and neighbours exist, and which official forms or proofs are often required. I outline practical steps: how to document the need, submit applications, respond to objections, and when proceedings before the local court may be necessary. The goal is to give you as a tenant clear actions so you can organize care by an assistance dog securely and calmly. I also name financing options, possible grants, and link to official sources and forms for your steps.

Tenant rights in condominium communities

The Civil Code (BGB) generally regulates the main obligations of landlords and tenants, for example the landlord's duty to grant use of the rental property.^[1] In the concrete case of an assistance dog: if keeping the dog is medically necessary to perform a physical-social aid, the landlord must consider whether restrictions are disproportionate and, if necessary, find a reasonable solution.

When is an assistance dog permitted?

An assistance dog is usually permitted when the need is medically confirmed and there would be a significant impairment without the dog. As a tenant you should set out the need in writing and attach medical or therapeutic expert reports. Administrative support may come from integration assistance benefits regulated under SGB IX.^[2]

Evidence and forms

For communication with the landlord or property management, clear documentation is important: medical certificate, proof of costs, possibly a notice about integration assistance or a severe disability ID. State the dog's purpose specifically and include a care or deployment profile.

• Medical certificate or therapy report describing the need for the assistance dog.
• Decision on integration assistance or other proof of benefits (if available).
• Written application to property management with concrete details on dog keeping and suggested rules (leash rules, quiet hours).
• Documentation of costs, training certificates and allergy-friendly measures, if relevant.

Financing and grants

Assistance dogs can cause high acquisition and maintenance costs. Possible funding sources include integration assistance benefits under SGB IX, support from the nursing care insurance in specific cases, or social assistance through the welfare office. Check early which agencies are responsible and which forms they require; personal appointments or formal applications are often necessary.

• Application for integration assistance (with the responsible agencies under SGB IX).
• Inquiry with the nursing care insurance for possible support with specific services.
• Social assistance application (SGB XII) to cover care costs if other benefits do not apply.

If the landlord objects

If the administration or a co-owner raises objections, document all letters and responses carefully. Request a written justification and set a deadline for a statement if needed. If the refusal persists, legal action is possible; typically the local courts handle tenancy disputes.^[3]

FAQ

Who decides whether an assistance dog is permitted?

The landlord may raise objections, but ultimately the competent local court may decide after balancing the tenant's and the community's interests.

What evidence should I provide?

Medical certificates, cost proofs, training documentation and, if applicable, decisions on integration assistance or nursing care benefits.

Can costs be covered?

Under certain conditions parts of the costs can be reimbursed via integration assistance, nursing care insurance or social assistance; this depends on the individual case and requires formal applications.

How-To

1. Document the need medically and collect all relevant proofs.
2. Send a written application to property management with attachments and obtain confirmation of receipt.
3. Observe deadlines: respond within set timeframes and document any formal objections.
4. Simultaneously file possible benefit applications (integration assistance, nursing care insurance, welfare office).
5. If necessary, prepare court proceedings at the competent local court and submit evidence.

Key takeaways

• Documentation is crucial to enforce your tenant rights.
• Early contact with authorities and experts eases funding applications.
• Legal protection exists, but conflicts with condo rules must be resolved factually and in writing.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 – Landlord duties (official text)
• SGB IX – Integration assistance (official text)
• Federal Court (BGH) – official site

1. [1] BGB §535 – Duties of the landlord (official text)
2. [2] SGB IX – Social Code Book IX (integration assistance)
3. [3] Federal Court (BGH) – information and decisions