Tenant Rights: Tradesperson Access & Deadlines Germany

Many tenants in Germany face questions about when landlords or tradespeople may enter the flat, how appointments should be arranged, and which deadlines apply. This practical guide explains in plain language how to document tradesperson visits, protect your privacy and enforce deadlines. You will learn which rights arise from tenancy law, how to write a written defect notice and when it may be sensible to go to the local court. The guidance also shows which official laws and forms are relevant and how to securely collect evidence to defend against unclear demands or unjustified entries.

What tenants need to know

As a rule, the landlord may not enter the flat unannounced. Planned tradesperson appointments usually require prior notice; emergencies (e.g. burst pipe) are treated differently. Many duties and rights are found in the German Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding maintenance duties and rights of access.^[1] Procedural questions in disputes about access or eviction fall under the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) and are usually decided at the local court (Amtsgericht).^[2]

Documenting: what and how

Note the date, time, reason for access and the persons involved. Photos and short notes help. Use a simple protocol template, sign it if possible and send a copy to the landlord by registered mail or email with read receipt.

• Record the date and time of the visit immediately.
• Describe the specific reason and the named works (e.g. heating repair).
• Take and save photos of damage or completed work.

Setting and reacting to deadlines

If you see a need for action (e.g. no hot water), set the landlord a reasonable deadline for remedy and state that you will document access or involve a third party (e.g. conciliation board) if necessary. Deadlines should be clearly named; if there is no response you can consider rent reduction or having the work performed and charging the landlord.

Right of entry vs. privacy

Landlords do not have a general right to constant access; inspections and repairs must be justified and announced. If you experience unjustified or repeated access attempts, document them and inform the local court or a counseling service.^[3]

FAQ

When may the landlord send tradespeople into my flat?

The landlord generally must announce it in advance and state the reason; only in emergencies is immediate access permitted.

How do I set a deadline for repairs?

In writing by registered mail or email with a deadline (e.g. 14 days) and a note about possible legal consequences if not complied with.

What do I do in case of unauthorized entry?

Document the incident, demand cessation and possibly compensation; consider a complaint or lawsuit at the local court.

How-To

1. Form: Write a defect notice stating the concrete defect and a deadline (e.g. 14 days).
2. Protocol: Record date, time, persons involved and measures; attach photos.
3. Monitor deadlines: Note the deadline end and act promptly if not met.
4. If necessary: File a claim or application at the local court and attach your documentation as evidence.

Key Takeaways

• Written documentation is your strongest evidence.
• Set clear, reasonable deadlines.
• Protect your privacy, especially against unannounced entries.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) § 535 – Vertragspflichten des Vermieters
• [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Verfahrensregeln
• [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Information on courts and law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) § 535 – Vertragspflichten des Vermieters
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Verfahrensregeln
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Information on courts and law