Coordinating Viewings: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know when and how landlords may schedule viewings, which rights you have on access and how to protect your privacy. This guide explains concretely which deadlines and forms apply, how to coordinate viewings safely and which sample documents help with communication. It covers legitimate reasons for access, reasonable notice periods, conflicting lease clauses and practical documentation steps so that complaints or objections can be supported in court. Read the notes on legal bases, case law and official forms.

What may the landlord do?

The landlord generally has the right to use the rented apartment to fulfill his duties under the tenancy agreement, for example for necessary repairs or for inspections during handover. At the same time, the German Civil Code protects the tenant's privacy and regulates duties and rights.^[1] A landlord usually needs reasonable notice, must not enter unannounced and must have a concrete reason.

Typical reasons for access

• Inspection for handover or acceptance of the apartment
• Access to carry out urgent repairs
• Viewings for prospective tenants or sale
• Access in case of imminent danger (e.g. burst pipe)

Notice, deadlines and form

There is no uniform national deadline for all cases; appropriateness depends on reason and urgency. For viewings to find new tenants, advance notice of several days is common; for urgent repairs, shorter notice may be acceptable. Written notices by letter or e-mail create evidential security. If the lease contains specific access clauses, check them for unfairness.

Practical tips for scheduling

• Propose clear time windows and confirm appointments in writing
• Insist on a third person's presence if you feel unsafe
• Keep a record with date, time and names of attendees
• Do not sign open-ended access authorizations without time limits

What to do in case of unauthorized access or problems?

If a landlord enters without notice or without a visible reason, this is an infringement of your privacy. Demand that it stop, document the incident and consider rent reduction or damages. For repeated violations you can contact the competent local court or consider legal action. Information on court procedures and competent courts can be found on the justice information portal.^[2]

Practical sample steps and forms

There are no single nationwide forms for all situations, but for court proceedings the formal rules of the Code of Civil Procedure must be observed. For concrete legal actions (e.g., eviction claim or payment order) use the official information and form offerings of the courts.^[2]

When which form or letter is useful

• Written request to the landlord to cease the behavior (own letter as a preliminary step)
• Payment order application for payment issues (check official justice guidance)
• Filing a lawsuit at the local court if extrajudicial steps fail

FAQ

When may the landlord enter the apartment without my consent?

Only in emergencies (e.g., imminent danger) or if this is contractually regulated and legally permissible. Other accesses generally require notice and a justified reason.^[1]

How much notice is reasonable for a viewing?

It depends on the reason. For viewings to find a successor tenant several days are common; for urgent repairs shorter deadlines may be permitted.

What evidence helps in disputes about unauthorized access?

Written notices, photos, witness statements and a detailed incident log are particularly helpful.

How-To

1. Propose a concrete time window by e-mail or letter and ask for confirmation.
2. Document every notice and visit with date, time and names.
3. Request the presence of an additional person if necessary and refuse unauthorized access.
4. Send a formal cease-and-desist letter if violations continue and consider legal steps.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• Justizportal – information on courts and procedures

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Justizportal – information on courts and procedures