Photo & Video Recordings: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany are unsure if and when a landlord may take photo or video recordings inside an apartment, hallway, or on the property. This checklist explains in clear, practical language which rights you have as a tenant, which deadlines apply, and how to properly document consent, records, and evidence preservation. You will learn how to date recordings, note the location and witnesses, which formal letters are useful, and when the local court is responsible. Concrete action steps help you respond quickly and protect your privacy without risking your rights. We also show when legal clarification makes sense, which template forms can be used, and how to meet deadlines so claims do not expire.^[1][2][3]

What applies in general?

Landlords may not generally enter private areas or record secretly. In principle, access and recordings require justification, such as danger, maintenance, or explicit tenant consent.

Practical checklist for tenants

• Photos and videos as evidence (photo, video): record date, time and place.
• Respect deadlines (deadline): object within a few days and inform the landlord.
• Forms and letters (form): send written consent or objection by registered mail.
• Regulate access (entry): confirm or deny access requests in writing.

What to do about unauthorized recordings?

If you believe recordings are unlawful, document everything, name witnesses and demand deletion or handover of recordings from the landlord. Request written information on the purpose and scope of the recordings and set a reasonable deadline for a response.^[2]

• Contact the landlord in writing and request information.
• For habitability issues caused by recordings, consider rent reduction or damages.
• In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; gather all documents for a lawsuit.

FAQ

Can the landlord take photos inside the apartment without permission?

No, internal recordings are usually inadmissible without consent or legal basis; exceptions exist in emergencies or with explicit legal authorization.

Which deadlines apply if I object?

Give the landlord a written deadline of about 7–14 days to respond and delete; observe statutory limitation periods under the BGB for legal actions.^[1]

Which forms are useful?

Useful documents include a written objection, proof of evidence collection (photos, witness list), and, if necessary, a termination or lawsuit letter following official templates.^[2]

How-To

1. Store photos and videos securely: note date, time and place.
2. Draft a written objection (form): state purpose, demand deletion and set a deadline.
3. Contact authorities or tenant associations if needed and consider legal action.
4. Submit documents to the local court if judicial clarification is required.

Help and Support / Resources

• Laws: German Civil Code (BGB)
• Federal Ministry of Justice: Tenant law information
• Federal Court of Justice: Jurisdiction and case law

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Templates and information — Federal Ministry of Justice
3. [3] Court responsibilities — Federal Court of Justice