Tenants: Wayfinding & Contrast in Old Buildings – Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it can be crucial to document wayfinding systems, contrasts and other accessibility defects in old buildings carefully. This text explains in plain language how to identify visible problems, take photos with dates, notify the landlord and secure evidence for potential legal proceedings. I describe relevant sections of the BGB, competent courts and official forms so you can meet deadlines and protect your rights. The advice is practical and helps you present disabilities in living space clearly, justify claims and find appropriate support in Germany. I provide concrete wordings for defect notices, guidance on setting deadlines and practical tips for securely storing photos and messages. For complex disputes I explain when the Amtsgericht is responsible and which documents to bring.

What to document?

Concrete, organized evidence is decisive if you as a tenant want to report barriers or missing contrasts in an old building or assert them legally. Pay attention to clear dates, location descriptions and an understandable chronology.

• Take photos from multiple angles with date and time.
• Save short video clips to show orientation and lighting conditions.
• Name witnesses or obtain written statements.
• Keep all messages, emails and letters to the landlord.

Legal basics

The most important basics are found in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), in particular regarding defects of the rental property and rent reduction ^[1]. For court proceedings, the rules of the Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) apply, e.g. for filing a lawsuit ^[2]. Tenancy disputes are often heard in the first instance by the Amtsgericht; appeals go to the Landgericht and ultimately to the Bundesgerichtshof ^[3].

How to document wayfinding and contrasts practically

Proceed systematically so that your documents will hold up later against the landlord, a lawyer or a court. Use clear file names, brief descriptions for each file and a copy of original messages.

1. Set deadlines: Request remediation in writing with a specific deadline (e.g. 14 days) and document the dispatch.
2. Photograph affected areas in daylight and twilight so contrast problems are visible.
3. Draft a defect notice: include date, description, impact on use and desired deadline.
4. Save the landlord's responses and note phone agreements with date and time.
5. If necessary, prepare your documents for the Amtsgericht: chronological folder with photos, copies and correspondence.

Example short defect notice

Dear Mr/Ms [Name], I hereby report defects at the apartment at [Address]: Necessary contrasts on staircase steps in the stairwell are missing, creating a tripping hazard and limitations for visually impaired persons. Please remedy the defect by [Date, e.g. 14 days]. If you do not respond, I will consider further steps. Sincerely, [Name]

Templates & important notes

There is no uniform nationwide form for a defect notice; a written letter or email with a clear description and deadline is common. For court action, courts use their own complaint forms or the formal requirements of the ZPO.

• Defect notice: When to use? When the apartment's use is impaired.
• Deadline: Provide a specific deadline, e.g. 14 days.
• Contacts: Contact local authorities or the Amtsgericht if necessary.

FAQ

Can I reduce the rent if wayfinding systems are missing?

Yes, if there are significant impairments due to missing wayfinding systems or contrasts, a rent reduction may be possible; document the extent and consequences carefully.

How long must I wait for a landlord's response?

Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days) and document the notice; for time-critical risks, choose shorter deadlines.

Where can I go if the landlord does not respond?

If there is no response, you can consider legal steps and contact the competent Amtsgericht or seek legal advice.

How-To

1. Set a deadline: Draft a defect notice with a clear deadline (e.g. 14 days).
2. Collect evidence: Store photos, videos, witness statements and messages chronologically.
3. Document dispatch: Send the notice by email and, if possible, also by registered mail.
4. Maintain contact: Note all responses from the landlord and phone agreements.
5. Court preparation: Assemble a folder with all documents in case you need to go to court.

Help and Support

• BGB: Civil Code (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• ZPO: Code of Civil Procedure (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Federal Court of Justice (bundesgerichtshof.de)

1. [1] BGB §535 – Landlord duties
2. [2] ZPO §253 – Filing a lawsuit
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice – Tenancy law