Tenant Rights: Approving Stairlift in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, the issue of a stairlift in an older building often arises when mobility is limited. You may wonder whether you are allowed to have a stairlift installed, who pays for it and what approvals are necessary. This guide clearly explains your rights as a tenant, the landlord's duties under the BGB^[1], possible funding and practical steps — from requesting permission from the landlord to legal options. I show how to use forms, respect deadlines and collect documentation so that cost coverage or installations become clearer. Read on for checklists, sample texts and contact points.

What tenants need to know

In principle: a stairlift can be part of necessary adaptations if there is a physical impairment. The landlord is obliged to hand over and maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for contractual use; this entails maintenance duties and obligations for contractual use^[1]. At the same time, structural changes often require the landlord's consent. Clarify in writing early which modifications are planned and which cost coverages are possible.

Approval by the landlord

Proceed as follows if you want a stairlift:

• Send a written request to the landlord describing the need and attaching offers from installation companies.
• Set a reasonable response deadline (e.g. 14–30 days) and document sending and receipt.
• Suggest specialist companies and offer to coordinate required permits (e.g. heritage protection).

Financing and subsidies

Tenants can check various funding sources: municipal grants, programs from KfW or integration assistance depending on disability. Some costs may be partly covered by long-term care insurance, others by municipal social welfare or pension insurance. Ask authorities early and submit applications with cost estimates.

• Check KfW programs and municipal grants with cost estimates.
• Contact the social welfare office or your care insurance for possible subsidies.

If the landlord refuses

If the landlord refuses without justification, document the response and consider legal steps. In disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; rules of civil procedure (ZPO)^[2] and local courts apply^[3]. Before filing a lawsuit, consider mediation or advice from tenant counselling services.

Practical model steps

Concrete texts and checklists help in practice:

• Template letter to the landlord: state need, request deadline, attach cost estimate.
• Documentation checklist: medical certificates, photos, offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for a stairlift?

It depends: sometimes the tenant, sometimes funding or subsidies are possible; in some cases the landlord may bear costs if maintenance obligations apply.

Do I always need written permission from the landlord?

Yes, structural changes should always be agreed in writing; without consent the landlord may later demand removal.

Which court can I turn to if there is a dispute?

Rental disputes are usually handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); appeals go to the regional court and possibly the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

How-To

1. Document need, medical certificates and limitations.
2. Submit a formal request to the landlord with cost estimates.
3. Check funding opportunities and file applications with responsible bodies.
4. Observe deadlines; if refused, consider court action at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Early communication with the landlord reduces conflicts.
• Good documentation increases the chances of cost coverage or funding.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535 ff.
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
• German Justice Portal: information on courts

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 ff. – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Deutsches Justizportal – Informationen zu Gerichten