Tenants: Stairwell Decoration in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to communicate correctly when decorating shared stairwells. Many conflicts arise because rules are unclear or neighbours worry about obstacles and fire safety. This article explains in plain language which rights and obligations you have as a tenant, how house rules and tenancy law interact, and which practical steps to take. You will receive tips on obtaining consent, avoiding risks to escape routes, and resolving conflicts peacefully. If necessary, I also show when legal action is possible and which courts are responsible so you can make informed decisions and properly assert your tenant rights in Germany. The guidance is practical.

What do house rules and tenancy law regulate?

The house rules often set out which items are permitted in the stairwell; additionally tenancy law in §§ 535–580a BGB regulates the duties of tenants and landlords.^[1] A decoration must not impair escape routes or fire safety. If the house rules say nothing, the rule is: no permanent obstruction for others and no endangerment of safety or accessibility.

Practical steps before decorating

• Document the planned decoration with photos and measurements so you can communicate clearly.
• Check the house rules in writing and note the relevant paragraphs or rules.
• Discuss plans in advance with the landlord or property manager and obtain consent.
• Pay attention to fire safety and accessible escape routes; avoid flammable materials and large obstructions.
• Inform neighbours in good time about installation times and the duration of decorations.

If neighbours or landlord object

You should first seek a conversation and try to find a community-minded solution. If that is not possible, the property manager or landlord may issue a warning; if escalated, tenancy disputes are decided by the local court (Amtsgericht).^[2] For fundamental legal questions or precedents, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decides on issues important to tenancy law.^[3]

Rights, duties and forms

Important legal bases are found in the BGB and complementary regulations such as the Betriebskostenverordnung. Official procedural forms follow the civil procedure rules of the ZPO; to initiate an eviction suit or other proceedings you generally need a written filing at the competent local court.^[2] For simple matters, template letters (e.g. inquiry letters to the landlord) are often sufficient — always include clear details about place, time and photos as attachments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who decides whether a decoration is permitted?

Usually the house rules decide; if unclear, the landlord is responsible or the competent local court will resolve the legal question.

Can the landlord demand immediate removal?

If there is a danger or the house rules are clear, the landlord may act quickly; otherwise they should usually issue a warning first.

What is the role of fire safety?

Fire safety has high priority: decorations must not block emergency exits, escape routes or fire detectors.

How-To

1. Collect photos, measurements and times of the planned decoration.
2. Read the house rules and note relevant passages or restrictions.
3. Notify landlord and property manager in writing and include the documentation.
4. Ensure escape routes remain clear and temporarily placed items are supervised.
5. If no agreement is reached, learn about the competent local court and possible resolution steps.

Key Takeaways

• Written communication protects your position in disputes.
• Fire safety and escape routes take precedence over decoration wishes.
• Involving landlord and neighbours early prevents escalation.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)