Tenant Rights for WG Viewings in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, WG viewings often sit between privacy and landlords' legitimate access rights. This text clearly explains which rules apply to appointments, how you can request or refuse entry, which deadlines and forms are important, and how to act in disputes. The goal is to give you practical steps — from submitting an appointment confirmation to documenting defects and contacting the local court if necessary. The notes are based on relevant provisions of the BGB and on typical court practice questions so that you, as a tenant, know your rights and can navigate viewings of shared flats in Germany confidently. I also describe how to collect evidence, meet deadlines and which template forms you can use.
Rights and Duties during Viewings
Landlords do not have an automatic right to unlimited access to the apartment. In principle: viewings must be announced, must not unreasonably violate privacy, and should take place within reasonable time windows. For the legal basis see the provisions in the BGB.[1]
What landlords may do
- The landlord may request a viewing for legitimate reasons, such as re-letting or repairs.
- Appointment proposals must be made with reasonable notice and should not intrude unexpectedly into private life.
- Prior contact is usually necessary; short-notice arrangements are possible but not the rule.
What tenants may do
- You may refuse a viewing or propose an alternative time if privacy would be compromised.
- Document time, participants and any defects in writing or with photos to secure evidence.
- For announced maintenance or repairs you have the right to information on scope and duration.
Preparation as a Tenant
Prepare a short list of questions (e.g., planned renovations, duration of contract negotiations) and have the documents ready that are commonly requested in WG arrangements. If landlords ask for forms or proofs, check carefully which data are necessary and whether sensitive information (e.g., ID numbers) is really required.
- Keep application documents minimal; only show necessary proofs.
- If a form is requested, ask for a copy or a precise explanation of its purpose.
- Agree on a clear start and end time for the viewing.
During the Viewing
Remain composed during the viewing: limit access to personal areas, politely explain if certain rooms should not be entered, and watch for damage or defects you may want to claim later. Photograph visible damage and note witnesses if present.
What to do in case of dispute or uncertainty
If you feel treated unfairly or the landlord demands unlawful access, document everything and seek legal advice. For court actions, the local court (Amtsgericht) is often responsible; complaints about rent reduction, termination or eviction are handled there.[2]
FAQ
- Does the landlord have the right to visit without prior notice?
- No, prior notification is generally required; unannounced visits are only permissible in emergencies.
- What deadlines apply to viewing notifications?
- There is no uniform deadline, but notifications should give tenants sufficient time to prepare; short-notice viewings without special reason are uncommon.
- Which forms are relevant?
- Typical items are confirmations of appointment or proofs for tenant self-disclosure; template forms and wording guidance are available from official sources.[3]
How-To
- Confirm appointment: reply in writing (email/SMS) with a proposed time window and ask for confirmation.
- Prepare documentation: take photos of relevant defects and note date and time.
- Protect private areas: indicate which rooms should not be entered.
- Document contacts: note names and contact details of all present.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] Federal Court of Justice (Bundesgerichtshof)
- [2] Gesetze im Internet (BGB)
- [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
