Pets & Tenant Rights in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, it is natural to want pets, but uncertainty and conflicts with the landlord often arise. This guide explains clearly which rights tenants have, how to check lease clauses on pet ownership, which requests or sample forms make sense and how to avoid conflicts or act with proper documentation. I name relevant laws and the responsible courts, show practical steps from the request to dispute resolution and give examples of wording. This way you know when permission is necessary, which obligations exist in case of damage and how to use documents and deadlines correctly to make safe decisions in Germany. The notes are practice-oriented and list specific deadlines, documentation and contact points.

Rights and Obligations for Pet Ownership

Tenants have obligations to preserve the rented property under tenancy law and can at the same time assert claims to permitted use. The Civil Code (BGB) regulates the basic duties of landlord and tenant^[1]. In disputes, local courts (Amtsgerichte) usually decide; proceedings follow the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2][3].

Practical Steps Before Getting a Pet

• Request to landlord (form): ask in writing and describe duration, size and keeping of the animal.
• Documentation (evidence): collect photos of the flat, animal description and references.
• Check repair needs (repair): clarify whether the animal could cause damage and how defects would be fixed.
• Observe deadlines (deadline): respond to replies and document deadlines in writing.

What to Do if the Landlord Refuses?

If the landlord bans pet ownership outright, check the exact wording of the lease. Blanket bans may be invalid in individual cases, especially for small animals or assistance dogs for the disabled. Always document communication in writing and justify your request, e.g. with proof of the animal's size or liability insurance. If formally refused, try mediation or consider legal steps after seeking advice.

FAQ

Do I always need the landlord's permission for a pet?

Not always: for small animals or when the lease does not explicitly regulate, separate consent is often not required; for larger animals or house rules, permission is usually necessary.

Can the landlord prohibit pet ownership because of odor or noise?

Yes, if there is demonstrable, significant disturbance, the landlord may demand measures or in extreme cases terminate the lease.

Where can I clarify legal disputes?

The local court (Amtsgericht) is competent for many tenancy disputes; for legal questions, initial legal advice or consumer counseling may help.

How-To

1. Step 1: Write a request (form) — describe species, size, keeping, duration and liability and ask for written consent.
2. Step 2: Prepare documentation (evidence) — collect photos, animal passport, insurance proof and correspondence.
3. Step 3: Observe deadlines (deadline) — record deadlines and respond in time to requests or rejections.
4. Step 4: Seek court or mediation (court) — if necessary, prepare documents for mediation or court and inform the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Early written communication reduces conflict.
• Good documentation strengthens your position in disputes.
• The local court handles many tenancy disputes.

Help & Support

• § 535 BGB – Gesetze im Internet
• ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court (BGH)

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (Gesetze im Internet)
2. [2] ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung (Gesetze im Internet)
3. [3] Federal Court (BGH) – Official court information