Assistance Dogs & Tenants: Rights in Germany

Legal framework

For tenants in Germany, the general duties and rights under the tenancy law of the German Civil Code (BGB) apply, alongside the prohibition of discrimination in the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). This means landlords and WEG bodies must take the legitimate needs of people with disabilities into account and cannot impose a blanket ban on an assistance dog ^[1][2]. If a legal dispute arises, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; procedural rules are found in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) ^[3].

Documenting an assistance dog in WEG buildings

Good documentation increases your chances of persuading the WEG and landlord. Gather medical certificates, training papers for the dog, photos and a logbook for incidents or required assistance. Clearly explain why the dog is necessary and what limitations occur without the dog.

• Contact the landlord/administrator and set a reply timeframe (deadline).
• Attach medical certificates and, if available, training proof as documents (evidence).
• Submit a written request or application with any relevant form (form); document content and delivery.
• Collect photos, videos and a logbook as evidence (evidence).
• Observe deadlines (deadline): set a response period and note any extensions.
• If necessary, consider legal steps at the local court (court) and prepare evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord ban an assistance dog?

No. A legitimate need due to disability can permit the keeping of an assistance dog; blanket bans are usually unlawful. Assess the individual case and provide evidence.

Which proofs are useful?

Medical certificate, dog training certificate, if applicable a disability ID card, and photos and a logbook documenting the need.

What if the WEG objects?

Object in writing, set deadlines, attempt mediation or conciliation; if necessary, file a claim at the local court (Amtsgericht).

How-To

1. Contact: Talk to the landlord/administrator and explain the need.
2. Gather proof: collect medical certificates and training documents for the dog.
3. Put it in writing: send a request or application by registered mail and document receipt.
4. Organize evidence: create photos, videos and a logbook.
5. Set a deadline: give a clear timeframe (deadline) for a response.
6. Legal steps: if objections continue, seek legal advice and consider filing at the local court (court).

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs
• Gesetze im Internet (gesetze-im-internet.de)

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — §§ 535–580a
2. [2] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)