Tenants: Ramp & Door Widening with Grants Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you often plan adjustments like ramps or door widenings together with the landlord and with public grants. This guide clearly explains which documents you need to prepare, which deadlines apply and which grant programs may be relevant. You will learn when a building permit or landlord consent is required, how to correctly submit a grant application (e.g., at KfW) and which proofs authorities and craftsmen may request. The aim is that, as a tenant, you know clear steps, meet deadlines and avoid conflicts early so that conversions are planned safely, economically and legally secure.

Which documents do tenants need for planning and funding?

Prepare complete proofs and offers so that funding bodies and landlords can review your request quickly.

• Application documents for grant programs (application / form) and copies of ID cards.
• Estimates and offers from craftsmen (estimate / amount).
• Technical plans or sketches that document exact measurements and height differences (craftsman offer / repair).
• Photos of the current state, damage documentation or barrier proof and medical certificates if needed.
• Landlord consent letter or notes in the lease about structural changes.

Deadlines and important dates

Some deadlines relate to grant applications, others to communication with the landlord or the building authority. Build in buffer time, because approvals and funding checks often take several weeks.

• Deadline for submitting grant applications: check the program requirements and submit documents before construction begins (deadline).
• Response time of the landlord: give a reasonable period for a statement, usually 2–4 weeks.
• Start of construction only after written funding approval or after agreement with the landlord (calendar event).

Permits and landlord consent

Tenants usually require the landlord's written consent for structural changes to the rental property. For interventions affecting the building fabric, a building permit may also be required.

• Written consent of the landlord: template as an informal letter describing the measure.
• For impact on load-bearing components: apply for a building permit at the responsible building authority (apply / form).
• In case of disagreement about consent, tenancy law issues can be clarified before the local court (Amtsgericht).

Forms and examples (official names)

Important official documents tenants should know:

• KfW application for the "Altersgerecht Umbauen" program (grant 455) – application for grants for barrier-reducing measures.^[2]
• Landlord consent in writing (informal consent or agreement letter) – example: description of the measure, cost sharing, restoration agreement.
• Complaint and procedural notes in case of dispute: references from the Civil Code (BGB) on duties and rights of tenant and landlord (BGB §§ 535–580a).^[1]

FAQ

Do I always need the landlord's consent for a ramp?

Yes, structural changes to the rental property generally require the landlord's written consent; for major interventions a building permit may also be necessary.

Can I apply for grants before the landlord consents?

Many grant programs require the owner's consent or a declaration that the measure is permissible; check program rules before applying.^[2]

Whom do I contact if the landlord refuses consent?

In case of dispute, tenancy claims can be asserted before the local court (Amtsgericht); consider legal advice and observe deadlines.

How-To

1. Collect proofs: photos, cost estimates and medical certificates if necessary.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and present the offer and planned measures.
3. Submit the grant application to the responsible funding agency and wait for written approval.^[2]
4. Commission craftsmen only after consent and grant approval, carry out the work and document the process.

Key takeaways

• Early coordination with landlord and funding agency reduces delays.
• Complete documentation and photos increase chances of grant approval.
• If disputed, courts such as the local court (Amtsgericht) can be involved; observe deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§ 535–580a: Tenancy law provisions
• KfW funding programs: Altersgerecht Umbauen (grant 455)
• Federal Court of Justice: Rental law decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet - BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] KfW - Förderprogramme Altersgerecht Umbauen (Zuschuss 455)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - Decisions on tenancy law