Planning an Accessible Bathroom for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the challenge of implementing an accessible bathroom in an older building. This guide clearly explains your rights as a tenant, when you need the landlord's consent and what funding options are available. It contains practical steps for coordinating with tradespeople, notes on cost sharing and suggested wording for letters to the landlord. We also clarify which documents and records are useful in disputes at the local court. The goal is to give you, as a tenant, a clear checklist to implement changes safely, legally secure and as cost-efficiently as possible. We also show how to document damage, meet deadlines and what rights exist if consent is refused.

What tenants should consider

Before you start planning, check the lease and clarify in writing with the landlord whether structural changes are allowed. Landlord duties and obligations to maintain the rental property are regulated in § 535 BGB; read the provision for details § 535 BGB^[1].

Rights and legal basis

As a tenant, you have the right to a habitable apartment; in case of serious defects you can demand reductions or repairs. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) often decides first-instance cases related to tenancy law^[2]. Precedents from the Federal Court of Justice can influence the interpretation of specific legal questions^[3].

Practical planning steps

Planning in older buildings requires special care: check statics, pipe routes and preservation rules, and obtain quotes.

• Check the lease and clarify permitted changes.
• Submit a written request to the landlord with a description of the measures.
• Obtain and compare quotes from qualified tradespeople.
• Check funding options and prepare applications.
• Documentation: secure photos, correspondence and estimates.

Dealing with the landlord

Frame your request clearly: description of measures, estimated costs, proposed execution and timelines. Offer to remove changes at move-out if required.

Funding and support

There are various funding programs and grants for housing adaptation measures; check local and federal programs and whether you as a tenant are directly eligible to apply.

FAQ

Do I always need the landlord's consent to make an accessible bathroom?

Yes, structural changes to the rented apartment generally require the landlord's prior consent; exceptions may apply in emergencies or for justified defects.

Who pays for the renovation?

Generally, the person who initiates the measure is responsible for the costs. Grants can cover part of the costs; cost-sharing can be agreed with the landlord.

What can I do if the landlord refuses?

Try mediation or advice, document correspondence and consider legal action at the local court if necessary.

How-To

1. Check the lease and existing agreements.
2. Create a written description of the measures with photos of the current situation.
3. Obtain at least two estimates from specialist firms.
4. Submit the application to the landlord in writing and include funding information.
5. Wait for the written response; document deadlines and agreements.
6. If refused, seek advice and, if necessary, resolution at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• § 535 BGB – Gesetze im Internet
• Justice portal of the German states (justiz.de)
• Federal Court of Justice (bundesgerichtshof.de)

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1. [1] § 535 BGB — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Jurisdiction of local courts — Justice portal (justiz.de)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice — Decisions and information (bundesgerichtshof.de)