Tenants: Legally Refuse Entry in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you have rights when a landlord wants to enter your apartment. This text explains in practical terms when landlords may request entry, what notice is required and how to draft a legally secure refusal. You will learn which deadlines apply, how to collect evidence and which courts are responsible if a dispute arises. At the end you will find a template letter, a step‑by‑step action plan and links to official laws and forms. The text uses clear language and examples so you can protect your privacy while acting in compliance with the law. We explain how to refuse appointments, which exceptions apply (emergencies, court orders) and provide wording for email, letter and registered mail with return receipt. We also show how to set deadlines and when rent reduction may be an option.

When may the landlord enter?

As a rule, the landlord may not enter the apartment without your consent. The duties and rights of the parties to the tenancy agreement are regulated in the Civil Code^[1]. Entry may be permitted if it was contractually agreed, is necessary for essential repairs, or if there is imminent danger. Short inspections for handover or meter reading are common but must be announced in advance.

Notice and reasonable deadline

A short notice with a specified appointment is sufficient in many cases; the exact deadline depends on the reason. For routine inspections, several days' notice is customary. For urgent repairs a shorter period may be justified. If the landlord repeatedly shows up unannounced, you may refuse entry and seek remedies.

How to draft a legally secure refusal

Phrase the refusal objectively, state the reason and optionally offer a concrete alternative date. Send the letter by registered mail with return receipt or by email with read confirmation. A sample opening might read: "Dear Ms./Mr. ..., I hereby refuse the announced entry to my apartment on [date] because ... I propose instead the date [date, time]."

Sample letter (short)

Dear Ms./Mr. [Name],
I hereby refuse the announced entry to my apartment on [date]. Please provide a concrete appointment announced at least [X] days in advance or state the legal reason in writing. Sincerely, [Your Name]

Evidence and next steps

Collect all relevant documents: emails, SMS, photos of damaged locks or fittings and witness statements. Documentation helps with rent reductions or court proceedings. If the landlord repeatedly violates your privacy, you can issue a warning and, if necessary, involve the local court^[2].

FAQ

When can I refuse entry?

You can refuse entry if there is no contractual agreement, no imminent danger and no valid notice has been given.

What notice periods apply?

For routine inspections several days are customary; for urgent repairs a shorter notice may be appropriate.

Where can I turn if the landlord repeatedly appears unannounced?

Contact the competent local court or a legal advice centre; escalation may lead to an eviction or injunction action regulated by civil procedure rules^[3].

How‑To

1. Set a deadline and propose alternative appointments (deadline).
2. Draft a template letter and send it by registered mail or email with read confirmation (form).
3. Secure evidence: emails, photos, witnesses and an incident log (evidence).
4. Refuse entry politely but firmly if there is no lawful basis (entry).
5. Contact a legal advice centre or the local court if violations continue (help).
6. Initiate legal steps if necessary and refer to Civil Code provisions and deadlines (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Information on the court system and competences — bundesgerichtshof.de
• [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Information on the court system and competences — bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de