Coordinating Viewings – Tenant Rights Germany

What Tenants Need to Know

As a tenant in Germany, you often face the question of how to coordinate viewings without losing your privacy or rights. This text clearly explains when landlords have a right of entry, which deadlines apply and how to conduct appointments safely and with documentation. You will receive a practical checklist, guidance on official forms and concrete steps for situations ranging from routine viewings to handovers. The goal is for you as a tenant to make informed decisions, meet deadlines and collect evidence if necessary to effectively enforce your rights.

When Landlords May Enter

The landlord may not enter the apartment without the tenant's permission. Entry rights only arise from the lease, an agreement, or a legal obligation (e.g., urgent repair). For regular viewings the landlord usually needs to announce the appointment and have a factual reason, such as selling the apartment or re-letting. If enforcement, eviction or court measures are involved, courts and the Code of Civil Procedure are decisive.^[1]

Practical Checklist for Viewings

Use this checklist to coordinate appointments safely and protect your privacy.

• Confirm proposed appointment times in writing and agree on a precise time.
• Clarify privacy: which rooms will be entered and whether photos are allowed.
• Document photos, notes and the names of all attendees.
• Request the purpose of the viewing in writing when possible and record it.
• For announced repairs check the duration and scope on site.

Deadlines, Forms and Legal Foundations

Relevant statutory regulations for tenancies can be found in the BGB, especially §§ 535–580a, which govern landlord and tenant duties.^[1] In court disputes, such as eviction suits or disagreements about entry, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply.^[2] Rental disputes are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht); higher instances are the Regional Court (Landgericht) or the Federal Court of Justice for legal precedent.^[3]

Practical Forms and Templates

There is no single official form for viewing notices; commonly used templates include:

• Sample termination letters for landlords or tenants when ending a tenancy (for orientation).
• Written invitation to a viewing with date, time and purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord enter without consent?

Generally no. Entry without permission is only permitted in emergencies or with legal basis. Announcements and factual reasons are usual.

How much notice must the landlord give?

There is no blanket statutory notice period for viewings, but reasonable advance notice and consideration are required; communicate specific appointments early.

Can I prohibit photos during a viewing?

Yes, you can prohibit photographing your personal belongings and rooms; limited photographing for documentation may be allowed if the landlord has a legitimate interest.

How-To

1. First check your lease for provisions on entry and viewings.
2. Request the purpose of the viewing in writing and note date and time.
3. Agree on site which rooms will be entered and whether photos are permitted.
4. Document the viewing with timestamped photos and names of attendees.
5. In case of dispute contact an official advisory service or the local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB §§535–580a
• Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – decisions on tenancy law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de