Tenants: Enforce Stairlift Approval in Germany 2025

Rights and legal basis

As a tenant you are entitled to protection from unreasonable barriers. Under general tenancy law, prior consent of the landlord is usually required for a permanent alteration; legal frameworks can be found in §§ 535–580a of the BGB and the procedural rules of the ZPO.^[1][2] In many cases a stairlift can be considered a necessary measure to secure the use of the dwelling, especially in case of disability or care needs.

Preparation: Evidence, forms, timetable

Before applying you should collect all documents and set a clear deadline.

• Collect photos, medical certificates and installation quotes
• Submit a written request to the landlord with a description of the measure and a cost estimate
• Set a response deadline (e.g. 14 days) and document the deadline in writing

Landlord consent: Procedure

Submit a formal request, justify medical or necessary reasons and offer compensations, such as professional removal when moving out. If the landlord agrees, scope, cost coverage and execution deadlines should be recorded in writing.

If the landlord refuses: lawsuit and local court

If the landlord refuses or does not respond, going to the local court may be necessary. Tenancy disputes are usually first heard at the Amtsgericht; later questions may be decided by the Landgericht or the BGH.^[3]

• Present documents in order: medical report, quotes, correspondence
• Prepare the complaint or legal representation for the proceedings
• Contact the local court for details on filing and fees

FAQ

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

In most cases yes. Permanent structural alterations require the landlord's consent unless there is an overriding medical need.

Who pays for the installation?

This depends on the individual case: sometimes the care insurance covers subsidies, often the tenant pays or negotiates a cost-sharing arrangement with the landlord.

Can I install a stairlift myself if the landlord does not reply?

Only with a court clarification or if a statutory exception applies. Without consent there may be claims for damages.

How-To

1. Submit a formal written request to the landlord and attach the quote
2. Collect evidence: medical reports, photos, quotes
3. Set a response deadline and prove the deadline in writing
4. If refused, file a complaint at the competent local court

Help and Support

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

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