Tenant Checklist: Staircase Decoration in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you may want to make the staircase more welcoming, for example with plants or string lights. At the same time, multi-occupancy buildings are subject to rules from the house rules and tenancy law under §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] This article explains in practical terms which decorations are permitted, how to inform neighbours and the landlord correctly and how to avoid conflicts. It describes concrete steps: in-house agreements, obtaining written permission, avoiding hazards and how formal complaints or applications to the local court work. Examples show which types are safe and when interventions in communal areas become inadmissible. The goal is to strengthen your rights as a tenant and promote good solutions for communal living. Read on for templates and examples.

Rights and rules explained

Communal areas such as staircases belong to shared use; changes are often limited by the house rules or contractual agreements. Tenant and landlord obligations are regulated in the BGB, especially in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1]

Practical checklist for tenants

• Make agreements with neighbours and obtain consent.
• Read the house rules and check what decoration is allowed.
• Obtain written permission from the landlord (form).
• Check safety: avoid trip hazards and respect fire protection.
• Document: take photos and note dates as evidence.
• In case of dispute: consider filing a timely claim at the local court ^[2].

When are court steps possible?

If no agreement can be reached, formal steps may be necessary. Proceedings before the local court follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) and require timely submissions and complete evidence.^[2]

FAQ

May I decorate the staircase as I like?

Often no: communal areas are subject to the house rules and tenancy law; obtain consent and check contractual regulations.^[1]

Which decorations are typically allowed?

Small, non-permanent decorations directly in front of the apartment door that do not obstruct escape routes or fire protection are more likely to be permitted.

What if the landlord refuses?

Object in writing, set a deadline for clarification and document everything; if necessary, consider legal action and secure evidence.^[2]

How-To

1. Prepare: take photos, note dates and document situations.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and explain the reasons and any safeguards (form).
3. Set a deadline: request a reply within a clear timeframe and document receipt.
4. If no agreement: collect documents and consider filing a claim at the competent local court ^[3].

Key Takeaways

• Communication with neighbours and the landlord reduces conflicts.
• Documentation with photos and dates is crucial.
• Always prioritise safety and fire protection rules.

Help and Support

• BGB: Statutory provisions on tenancy
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – procedures and deadlines
• Justice Portal of the Federal and State Governments – local courts

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Justice Portal of the Federal and State Governments – local courts