Tenant Rights: Allow Satellite Dish in Germany

What Tenants Need to Know

As a tenant in Germany you may wonder whether you may install a satellite dish on a balcony or facade. The issue involves house rules, owners' interests and tenancy law under the BGB^[1], so clear steps are important: check, talk to the landlord, obtain written consent and, if necessary, seek judicial clarification. In many cases the balance between the tenant's legitimate interest and the interests of the owners' association is decisive.

Practical Steps Before Installation

Before drilling or making changes to the facade and balcony railing, proceed as follows:

• Check the house rules and the lease for prohibitions or rules.
• Speak personally with the landlord and explain the installation location, size and fastening method.
• Request written consent or an amicable agreement.
• Ideally have the installation carried out by a professional company and document the condition of the facade.

Legal decisions are often based on the BGB; in disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent and the ZPO regulates lawsuits^[2]. Higher courts such as regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice decide on fundamental issues^[3].

FAQ

Do I generally need the landlord's permission for a satellite dish?

Yes, structural changes to the rented property usually require consent; however, a tolerance may be required in certain cases.

Who pays for installation and removal?

Generally the tenant bears the installation costs; removal costs can be contractually regulated or agreed upon.

What if the landlord refuses permission?

Document your request, seek a meeting, and consider legal steps through the local court.

How-To

1. Check the lease and house rules for provisions on altering the rented property.
2. Take measurements, photos and prepare an installation proposal.
3. Send the landlord a written request with all details and a deadline.
4. Wait for a response and document all communications.
5. Have the satellite dish professionally installed and keep invoices.
6. If refused, consult tenant advice or consider legal action.

Help and Support

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

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)