Tenants: Guidance Systems & Contrasts in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you are entitled to a safe and usable living environment. In WEG buildings, guidance systems, tactile markings and sufficient contrasts for people with visual impairments are part of accessibility. This text explains practically how, as a tenant, you can carefully document visible defects in guidance systems and contrasts, which pieces of evidence are useful and how to communicate effectively with the landlord or property management. The guide helps you meet deadlines, collect evidence and inform actors such as the WEG or the competent local court. Concrete wording aids, authority tips and references to relevant laws are included so that you can assert your rights in Germany factually and effectively.

Why documentation matters

Accurate documentation improves your chances that defects will be remedied promptly or that you can make legally effective claims. Descriptions, dates and photos together form a reliable file. When referring to tenancy obligations, a reference to statutory provisions, e.g. maintenance obligations under the BGB^[1], can help.

What to document

• Photos and videos of the affected guidance systems, markings and steps from multiple angles.
• Date and time of each observation and short descriptions of the condition.
• Written communication with landlord, property manager or WEG administration (email, registered mail, protocol).
• Forms, defect reports or official letters as PDF or scan.
• Notes on hazards or impairments of usability (e.g. missing contrast on step edges, blocked guidance systems).

How formal reports work

Send a written defect report to the landlord or WEG administration and set a deadline for remedy. Specify exactly what is missing or defective, attach evidence photos and set a reasonable deadline. For communal WEG areas, also document meeting minutes or resolutions and formally request the administration to fix the issue.

Forms and official steps

For court action, specific forms and correct jurisdiction are important. Civil procedure rules (the ZPO) apply and for eviction suits the competent local court is responsible; check local jurisdiction early^[2][3]. Specific forms vary by federal state; many courts provide complaint and application templates online.

Practical example: Defect report to WEG administration

Write brief and factual: describe the defect, when discovered, what impairment exists, include evidence (photos), set a deadline (e.g. 14 days) and ask for an acknowledgement of receipt.

FAQ

Who is responsible for guidance systems in a WEG building?

For communal areas, the owners' association usually decides; the administration implements resolutions. For rented apartments within private property, the landlord is usually responsible.

When can I reduce the rent because of missing accessibility?

A rent reduction is possible if the usability of the apartment or communal access is significantly restricted; thoroughly document the defect and its extent.

Who do I contact in an emergency?

In case of acute danger (e.g. missing marking on hazardous steps), report immediately to the landlord and, if necessary, to the competent local authority or public order office.

How-To

1. Collect: Take photos, videos and written notes with date and location.
2. Report: Send a written defect report to the landlord/WEG with a deadline and evidence.
3. Keep records: Save responses, acknowledgements and any meeting minutes.
4. Next steps: If no remedy occurs, inform the Amtsgericht or seek legal advice.

Help and Support

• Information on the BGB and tenancy law
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions
• Justice portal – court forms and jurisdictions

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] ZPO – Code of Civil Procedure – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Justice portal – jurisdictions and forms