Tenant Rights: Ramp & Door Widening in Germany

If tenants in Germany need a ramp or door widening for accessibility, this often affects not only the apartment interior but also common areas and requires approval from the condominium owners' association (WEG). This article explains in clear language what rights and duties tenants and landlords have, how to write an informal application to the WEG, which evidence and deadlines are important, and who must bear the costs. I also describe when structural measures count as necessary modernization, which courts are responsible for disputes and how formal steps up to a lawsuit at the local court look. This provides tenants with practical steps for a safe, accessible home.

Rights and Responsibilities

If the measure only affects the interior of the rented apartment, the usual tenancy rules under the Civil Code (BGB) apply. However, if the ramp or door widening interferes with common property, the WEG's consent is required. In case of disagreement about consent or costs, the local court is usually competent; civil procedure follows the rules of the ZPO.^[1][2]

Application to the WEG: how to proceed

An informal application to the administration or directly to the WEG should include: name, apartment, description of the measure, purpose (e.g. medical necessity) and the desired timeframe. Attach a medical certificate or technical report if possible, plus photos and a sketch of the planned ramp or door widening.

Example application items

• Who applies: tenant name and contact details.
• What is planned: exact description of the ramp or door widening.
• Reason: medical necessity or accessibility need.
• Evidence: certificate, photos, technical drawings.

The WEG may set additional conditions, such as materials or dimensions, to protect common interests. If the WEG rejects without factual reasons, this decision may be contestable.

Costs and who pays

Who bears the costs depends on the case: if it is an individually ordered adaptation, contracts and case law between tenant and landlord must be examined; if the change affects common property, the WEG or the owners' association may be involved.

• Self-payment: tenants may pay for small adjustments themselves.
• Landlord contribution: the landlord may be obliged to share costs if the measure improves the rental property.
• WEG costs: if the change affects common property, the WEG decides on financing and distribution.

If the WEG refuses: legal steps

If refused, tenants and landlords should first check the WEG meeting minutes and request a written justification. If the refusal appears formally challengeable, civil legal steps can be initiated; local courts are often competent and procedures follow the ZPO.^[2]

FAQ

Who decides on a ramp in the stairwell?

The condominium owners' association decides on changes to common property; the landlord must also be involved for rental apartments.

Can I as a tenant carry out the measure myself?

Only with the owners or WEGs consent if common property is affected; without permission you may face removal and liability for damages.

Which courts are competent in case of dispute?

Housing and tenancy disputes are first tried at the local court; for questions of fundamental importance appeals can reach the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

How-To

1. Inform: first talk to the landlord and building management about the need.
2. Gather documents: prepare medical certificate, photos and cost estimate.
3. Submit application: file the informal application with the WEG administration.
4. If refused, review minutes and consider legal advice.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet: Civil Code (BGB)
• Gesetze im Internet: Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesamtausgabe
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesamtausgabe
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Official site