Pets for Tenants in Germany: Rules & Template

As a tenant in Germany you often want to keep a pet without getting into conflicts with the landlord. This practical guide explains in plain language which rights and obligations you have as a tenant, how to arrange consent, which deadlines and evidence are important, and how to avoid or resolve disputes. There are tips on tenancy law, liability for damages and court procedures as well as templates for consent and response letters. The guidance is general; for complex cases consult your local district court or professional advice.^[1]

What applies to keeping pets?

In principle, keeping pets is often permissible but depends on the lease, the type of animal and behaviour. Contract clauses that ban all pets may not always be effective. For dogs and cats: consideration, no health dangers and no unreasonable damage. For concrete legal provisions see the relevant BGB paragraphs.^[1]

Practical rules for tenants

• Obtain written consent (notice): agree on the keeping and record details in writing.
• Report damages and repairs: document each damage with photo and date.
• Ensure cleanliness and consideration: maintain apartment and belongings to avoid nuisance.
• Keep records: veterinarian receipts, rent payments and communication.

Template: Request for permission to keep a pet

Use a short, factual letter to the landlord. State animal type, size, behaviour, liability insurance and contact details. Send by registered mail or by email with read receipt and keep a copy.

Sample content (short template)

Dear landlord, I request written permission to keep a small dog (Max, 8 kg). I accept liability for damages, will observe quiet hours and hold pet liability insurance. Please inform me of your decision within 14 days.

What to do in case of refusal or dispute?

If the landlord refuses or does not respond, document the communication and check whether a general ban clause is effective. Small pets are often tolerated; if consent is unjustly denied you can request a factual statement and, if necessary, consider legal steps. Rent reductions rarely apply here except for impairments by third parties.

Court proceedings and jurisdiction

Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local district court (Amtsgericht) in first instance; decisions can be appealed to higher courts up to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) for fundamental questions.^[2]

FAQ

1. Do I always need the landlord's written consent?

No, not always; an agreement is often sufficient, but written consent provides legal certainty.

2. Can the landlord evict me because of a small dog?

An eviction due to a single, properly kept small pet is only justified in special cases.

3. Who pays for damage caused by my pet?

The pet owner is liable; pet liability insurance typically covers damages.

How-To

1. Write a formal request to the landlord and list all relevant details (type, size, liability).
2. Document the response and keep copies of all communications.
3. In conflicts seek dialogue or mediation before considering a lawsuit.
4. As a last step, consider filing a suit at the local district court; present all evidence in order.

Key notes

• Always act within legal deadlines, e.g. for responses or filing suits.
• Obtain pet liability insurance to reduce financial risk.

Help and Support / Resources

• District courts and BGH information (court)
• BGB §§ 535-580a and related laws (law)
• Federal Ministry of Justice - legal information (help)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions and information
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)