Do I need the landlord's permission to attach a parcel locker?

Often yes, especially if the locker is attached outside your flat or affects communal areas; clarify this in writing with the landlord.

Who is liable if a parcel is stolen from the parcel locker?

Liability depends on the cause and security: carrier, landlord or tenant may be responsible depending on circumstances; secure evidence and check insurance.

Can the landlord completely ban parcel lockers in the building?

A general ban is possible if it is justified by house rules or legitimate interests of the tenant community; blanket bans without valid reason may be contestable.

Parcel Lockers and Tenant Rights in Germany 2025

Tenant Rights & Protections 3 min read · published September 07, 2025

Many tenants in Germany today encounter parcel lockers in the hallway, stairwell or at the building entrance. These lockers ease parcel deliveries but raise questions about tenancy law, use, access and data protection. As a tenant you should know when the landlord must agree, who is liable for damage and how to respond if parcel lockers block the stairwell or affect your privacy. This guide explains practical rights and duties under German law, shows concrete steps for complaints and sample letters, and names the responsible authorities and courts. The language is kept understandable for non‑lawyers so tenants can assess their position confidently and avoid possible conflicts.

Legal status of parcel lockers

Parcel lockers in apartment buildings are often communal facilities or attachments to commonly used areas. The rules of tenancy law under the Civil Code (BGB) are decisive: landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental property, tenants have the right to contractual use of the flat and agreed ancillary areas^[1]. Permanent use of communal areas for parcel lockers may require tenants' consent or a permissible contractual arrangement.

Does the landlord need to consent?

Whether a landlord must allow installation of a parcel locker depends on the location. If attached inside the flat, structural changes usually require consent. If lockers are fixed in communal areas, this can affect other tenants' usage rights; a written clarification is recommended. Federal Court of Justice decisions on structural changes and use of communal areas are relevant and should be reviewed in case of dispute^[4].

If a landlord forbids parcel lockers without a valid reason, that may be an impermissible restriction; conversely, lockers must not unreasonably impede use of communal areas.

Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.

What tenants can do

Send a written defect notice to the landlord and describe the issue precisely.
Set a deadline, e.g. within 14 days request removal or remedy.
Secure photos and logs as evidence and document deliveries.
If there is no response, consider legal action and possibly a claim at the local court.

Data protection and access

Parcel lockers often process personal delivery information; this raises data protection issues. Operators and landlords must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation and ensure only authorized persons have access. For concrete data protection questions, the supervisory authority can help^[3].

In most regions the landlord remains responsible for the security of communal areas.

Liability and insurance

For lost or damaged parcels, liability depends on the cause: if the parcel locker was properly secured, the carrier or delivery service may be liable; if the box was improperly installed and caused damage, the tenant or landlord may be responsible. Always check liability clauses in the tenancy agreement and notify liability or household insurance if necessary.

Forms and templates (official guidance)

There are no specific official forms for parcel lockers, but the following templates and rules are relevant:

Written defect notice (tenant letter) as an informal written message with a deadline; a simple template letter to the landlord can be used as example.
Documentation checklist: photos, dates/times, witness statements - keep everything organized as evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need the landlord's permission to attach a parcel locker?: Often yes, especially if the locker is attached outside your flat or affects communal areas; clarify this in writing with the landlord.
Who is liable if a parcel is stolen from the parcel locker?: Liability depends on the cause and security: carrier, landlord or tenant may be responsible depending on circumstances; secure evidence and check insurance.
Can the landlord completely ban parcel lockers in the building?: A general ban is possible if it is justified by house rules or legitimate interests of the tenant community; blanket bans without valid reason may be contestable.

How to proceed

Document: take photos, note times and name witnesses.
Send a defect notice in writing to the landlord and set a clear deadline.
Wait for the deadline and follow up if necessary.
Seek advice (legal counsel, tenants' association) before taking further steps.
If no agreement is reached, consider filing a claim at the local court.

Key takeaways

Tenants should always clarify changes to communal areas in writing.
Good documentation facilitates enforcing rights and insurance claims.
Use official advisory services before initiating legal proceedings.