Tenant Checklist: Stairwell Decoration in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to know which decoration in the stairwell is permitted and how to avoid conflicts with the landlord or neighbors. This guide explains the legal basics of tenancy law, typical house rule provisions and practical steps for agreement and documentation. You will learn when permission is required, how to minimize damage risks and which deadlines apply to requests. The checklist contains suggested wording for inquiries to the landlord, templates for photos and logs, and advice on when legal advice or the competent local court should be involved. The goal is to set clear rules and avoid unnecessary disputes. Act informed and prudently.

What applies legally?

The Civil Code regulates the basic rights and duties of landlord and tenant, in particular in §§ 535–580a.^[1] In legal disputes, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply to lawsuits and enforcement.^[2] Many disputes about shared property fall within the competence of the local court; landmark decisions on tenancy law come from the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

Practical checklist

• Send a written request to the landlord asking for clear permission or refusal.
• Take photos before and after the decoration and note date and location.
• Document costs or potential damage and obtain quotes for repairs.
• Record deadlines for responses and requests and follow up within the deadline.
• Check safety and fire protection requirements; keep escape routes and common areas clear.

FAQ

May I put plants or seasonal decorations in the stairwell?

Often coordination with the landlord is required. Check the house rules and ask for written permission; pay attention to fire safety and escape routes.

What if the landlord demands removal?

Respond in writing, document the decoration and timely requests. If no agreement is reached, legal action may be necessary.

When is legal action appropriate?

If damage occurs, deadlines are not met, or a unilateral prohibition has no legal basis, consulting a legal advisory service or filing an application at the local court may be appropriate.

How-To

1. Draft a written request to the landlord with photo attachments and send it by email or registered mail.
2. Create a photo record before installing and after removal, with dates and short descriptions.
3. Set a reasonable deadline for response (e.g. 14 days) and document all communication.
4. If no solution is reached, consider legal steps at the competent local court or obtain legal advice first.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions and information

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions and information