Tenant Rights: Contractor Access 2025 Germany

As a tenant in Germany, practical questions often arise about contractor access and the protection of your privacy. This text is aimed at tenants without legal training and clearly explains which rights and obligations apply, which legal bases such as §§ 535–536 BGB are relevant^[1], and when you may refuse access. You will learn how to document defects, appointments and communication, how to set a reasonable deadline for the work to be carried out and what role the local court can play in a dispute. Formal steps, template letters and official contact points are also named so that you can respond safely and correctly.

Rights on contractor access

In principle, the landlord is obliged to maintain the property and may order necessary repairs (§§ 535 ff. BGB)^[1]. At the same time, the law protects the tenant's privacy: intrusions must be announced, proportionate and time-appropriate; unclear or excessive intrusions can be refused. In disputes, the local court often decides; leading decisions of the Federal Court of Justice show the balancing between maintenance needs and tenant interests^[2].

When you can refuse access

• Missing or too short notice (notice).
• No agreed appointment or work at inappropriate times (calendar).
• Unclear key arrangements or doubts about the identity of the persons (privacy, keys).
• Work that disproportionately intrudes into the apartment or creates safety risks (safety).
• Work without apparent maintenance need that restricts space or use (repair).

What tenants should do in practice

Proceed step by step: request a written announcement, document defects with photos and witnesses, set a reasonable deadline for rectification and state in writing if you refuse access. In case of imminent damage or danger, the landlord may act faster; otherwise, you as a tenant are protected against unjustified intrusions. Use template texts for setting deadlines or objections and send important letters by registered mail or email with read receipt^[3].

FAQ

Can I refuse contractors access if they arrive at short notice?

Yes, if there is no prior announcement or the appointment is unreasonable, you can refuse access. Request a written announcement and set a deadline to arrange an appointment.

Which deadlines should I set?

Set a reasonable deadline that takes into account the type and scope of the work; typically 7–14 days for routine work, shorter deadlines for urgent danger situations.

When can I reduce the rent?

A rent reduction is possible if the usability of the apartment is significantly restricted by work or defects. Documentation and timely notification to the landlord are important.

How-To

1. Document defects with photos, date and witnesses (document).
2. Set a clear written deadline for rectification (deadline).
3. Send announcements or objections by registered mail or email with read receipt (notice).
4. In case of dispute: consider action at the local court or seek professional advice (court).
5. Keep all receipts, invoices and messages (evidence).

Key Takeaways

• Tenants may refuse unreasonable access under certain conditions.
• Documentation and deadline setting are crucial to enforce rights.
• If in doubt, contact official bodies or the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§ 535 ff.
• Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–536 — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Decisions of the BGH — Bundesgerichtshof
3. [3] Template texts and forms — Bundesministerium der Justiz