Service Dog in Older Buildings: Tenant Rights Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a service dog can make an important contribution to participation and safety. Conflicts often arise in older buildings, for example because of limited storage, stairs or alleged hygiene issues. This text explains in plain language what rights and duties you have as a tenant, which proofs are usually required and how to take practical steps to enforce your claim. I describe when landlords may prohibit keeping a dog, which exceptions do not apply, how to document correspondence and evidence sensibly and which authorities or courts are responsible. The goal is to make you able to act without unnecessary confrontation but with clear legal arguments.

What is a service dog?

A service dog supports people with disabilities or health limitations in everyday tasks, such as mobility, alerting or psychological stabilization. Unlike a regular companion dog, a service dog is trained for concrete tasks that improve participation.

Tenant rights and obligations

As a tenant, under certain conditions you have the right to keep a service dog. In general, the tenancy law of the BGB forms the basis for duties and rights concerning the rented property.^[1] Landlords may only prohibit keeping a dog in narrowly defined cases; in disputes the local court often decides, and lawsuits are handled under the rules of the ZPO.^[2][3]

Which proofs help

Not every landlord requires the same documents, but typical proofs include:

• Medical certificate describing the need for a service dog.
• Training certificate or confirmation from a recognized training provider.
• If applicable, a disability ID card or corresponding decision.

Practical steps to enforce

Proceed in a structured way: collect proofs, inform the landlord in writing, offer a compromise (e.g. additional cleaning) and set deadlines for a response.

1. Send a written request to the landlord with justification and attachments.
2. Follow up within a reasonable period (e.g. 14 days) and offer a meeting.
3. If refused, request and document a written explanation.
4. For unclear legal questions seek advice at the local court or free legal counselling.

FAQ

Can the landlord generally forbid the service dog?

No, only for proven, significant reasons such as serious property damage or if the animal poses a concrete danger may it be prohibited.

Do I need a special form for proof?

There is no nationwide standard form; a medical certificate and training proofs are usually sufficient.

Where can I turn if the landlord sues?

For tenancy disputes the local court is usually responsible; decisions can be appealed up to the Federal Court of Justice.

How-To

1. Obtain a written medical certificate explaining the need for the service dog.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and attach the certificate and training proofs.
3. Document every reply and arrange a personal meeting if possible.
4. If the landlord refuses, request a written explanation and consider legal steps.

Key takeaways

• A service dog cannot be generally banned under certain conditions.
• Good documentation and open communication are critical.
• The local court often decides disputes; know your deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
• Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof