Pet Ownership When Moving In: Tenant Rights in Germany

When moving with pets, many tenants face practical and legal questions. Beyond the desire to bring a dog, cat or small pet, checking the lease and clarifying permission with the landlord in Germany is essential. This includes explicit permissions, house rules, possible restrictions for certain types of animals and neighbor considerations. In addition, documentation, early communication and, if necessary, proof of vaccinations or proper care are important. The following guide explains in plain language which clauses matter, what steps tenants should take before moving in and how to find official rules and forms so pet ownership when moving in is legally secure and low-conflict. Practical checklists follow below.

Legal framework

Under German law the provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) regulate the duties of landlords and tenants; important rules on the obligation to provide the rental and the use of the rental unit are found in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] Lease agreements and house rules can specifically restrict pet ownership, while court decisions clarify exceptions.

Check before moving in

Check the following points in the lease, in the house rules and before speaking to the landlord.

• Clarify permission in the lease (often written).
• Review house rules and rules for common areas.
• Consider consequences for the deposit or liability for damages.
• Assess neighbor considerations and noise risks.
• Prepare insurance coverage (liability) and veterinary records.

If the landlord objects

First seek discussion and offer concrete compensating measures (e.g. increased deposit, clear rules for exercise or behavior). If the landlord refuses or prohibits the keeping without reason, resolution before the competent local court is possible.^[2]

Documentation and forms

Document written agreements, photos of the apartment condition and vaccination proofs. Official sample letters such as a formal consent request or a notice template can be useful; a sample from the Federal Ministry of Justice is often a helpful template if you need to send a formal request or objection.^[3]

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's permission to bring a pet?

If the lease or house rules require permission, the landlord must agree; typical small pets often have more leeway.

Can the landlord evict me because of a pet?

An eviction due to pet ownership is only possible in case of significant disturbances; warnings and opportunities to remedy are usually required first.

What proofs are useful?

Vaccination records, liability insurance proof and a written landlord consent or clear lease clauses help avoid later disputes.

How-To

1. Read the lease and house rules carefully.
2. Talk to the landlord before moving in and explain the pet conditions.
3. Obtain written consent or agree on clear conditions.
4. Document the apartment condition and relevant proofs.
5. In disputes, check the path to the local court or seek legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB (gesetze-im-internet.de) – central provisions on tenancy law
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – key decisions on tenancy law
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – forms and sample letters

1. [1] BGB — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Competent court jurisdiction (Amtsgericht) — Justizportal
3. [3] Sample letters and forms — Federal Ministry of Justice