Pets in Lease: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants wonder which documents and deadlines matter when extending a lease that involves keeping pets in Germany. This article explains in plain language which clauses in the lease to check, which formal letters you may need, and what deadlines apply if you want to challenge a landlord's approval or rejection. I describe practical steps, name relevant legal bases and show how to present evidence such as photos, pet registration documents or liability insurance. Everything is tailored to the situation of tenants in Germany so you can make safer decisions and avoid missing deadlines. I list typical deadlines, how long landlords usually have to respond, what to include in objection letters and how to document deadlines.

Which documents should tenants check?

First check the lease for an explicit clause on pet ownership: permission, conditional approval or a general ban. Look for deadlines for notifications or proof obligations. Fundamental rights and duties under tenancy law are found in the BGB.^[1]

• Lease clause: Examine wording on pet ownership, permissions, and time restrictions.
• Correspondence: Prepare templates for consent or objection and send important letters by registered mail.
• Proofs: Collect photos, registration documents, vaccination records or liability insurance proofs.
• Deadlines: Note landlord response deadlines and any deadlines for your replies.

Deadlines for extension and approval

When extending a contract, the landlord can approve or refuse within a reasonable time; what is "reasonable" depends on the individual case and case law.^[3] Respond in writing and on time if you need consent or wish to contest a refusal. Procedural rules for court actions are set out in the ZPO.^[2]

• Short notifications: Expect a reply within 14–30 days if the contract does not specify a deadline.
• Objection: Submit objections in writing with reasons and obtain confirmation of receipt.
• Documentation: Secure dated photos and witness statements promptly.

Forms and templates

There are no uniform nationwide mandatory forms for permission to keep pets, but model texts and guidance from ministries and courts are helpful. A practical example is a short dated letter to the landlord including: (1) reference to the existing lease, (2) description of the pet, (3) proof of liability insurance and vaccination status, (4) request for written consent within a period such as 14 days. Model texts are available on official ministry or court websites.

Example form name: "Termination letter / objection template" (sample texts are often provided by federal ministries). For court or enforcement forms, contact the competent local court (Amtsgericht).

What if the landlord refuses?

If the landlord prohibits pet ownership or refuses consent, examine the reasons: danger, excessive nuisance or a breach of contract can justify a ban. Consider negotiation options (e.g., conditions or probation) and document all conversations in writing. If amicable agreement is not possible, consider legal clarification before the local court (Amtsgericht).^[2]

FAQ

Do I always need the landlord's written consent for a pet?

Not always; if the lease clearly permits pets you do not. If there is no clause or it is unclear, written consent is advisable.

What deadline applies when I ask the landlord for permission?

If the lease does not set a deadline, expect an answer within 14–30 days and send a written reminder if needed.

Can the landlord ban a small dog?

It depends on the circumstances; legitimate landlord interests or other tenants can support a ban, but it depends on the individual case and proportionality.

How-To

1. Check the lease for pet clauses and note relevant passages.
2. Write a formal letter to the landlord with all proofs and a reasonable response deadline.
3. Record receipt and response dates and send important letters by registered mail.
4. If refused, seek negotiation or consider legal action at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [3] Bundesgerichtshof — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — bundesgerichtshof.de