Prams in Hallways: Tenant Rights in Germany

In apartment buildings, disputes often arise when prams are left in the hallway. As a tenant in Germany, you have rights but also duties: escape routes must not be permanently obstructed, and house rules as well as fire safety must be observed. At the same time, tenancy law protects your needs as parents, for example when space for temporary parking is necessary. In this article I explain clearly how to raise conflicts, collect evidence, refer to house rules and the statutory provisions in the BGB, and when formal steps such as filing a report at the local court are sensible. I also show how to conduct constructive talks with landlord and neighbors and which official forms and authorities are relevant.

What to do if prams are left in the hallway?

First check the house rules and fire and escape route regulations. Prams permanently left that restrict escape routes or cause dirt in the hallway can be prohibited. Refer to the relevant provisions in the BGB^[1] and the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure for formal proceedings^[2].

Practical steps

• Contact the affected neighbor or the property manager politely first.
• Collect evidence: photos, time, date and witnesses.
• Check the house rules and note relevant paragraphs.
• Point out fire safety and escape route obligations, if applicable.

If direct talks do not help, send a written request to the neighbor or the property manager; use clear deadlines and reasons. As a template, general sample letters of the Federal Ministry of Justice can serve as orientation^[4]. If eviction or use restrictions need clarification, the Code of Civil Procedure governs the procedure, which begins at the local court^[2].

Rights and duties: What does tenancy law say?

Under tenancy law: the landlord must maintain the rented premises in an appropriate condition, and tenants must be considerate of others. Specific disputes such as storage in the hallway are often judged on a case-by-case basis; relevant decisions of the Federal Court of Justice provide guidance^[3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it allowed to leave a pram in front of the apartment door?

Temporary parking is often tolerated; however, the hallway must not be used as permanent storage if escape routes or other tenants are affected.

What can I do if a pram blocks the escape route?

Demand removal immediately, document the blockage and inform property management or the fire department if there is an acute risk.

Does the landlord have to provide a storage space in the cellar or storage room?

There is generally no general obligation to provide additional storage rooms unless it is agreed in the tenancy contract.

How-To

1. Take photos and note time, place and possible hazards.
2. Speak first personally and calmly with the neighbor.
3. If necessary, send a short written notice with a deadline.
4. In case of escalation contact the property manager; as a last resort, consider legal action and involve the local court.

Help and Support

• Hotline and information at the Federal Ministry of Justice
• Laws on the Internet: BGB
• Federal Court of Justice: Case law

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet - BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet - ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof
4. [4] Bundesministerium der Justiz