Property Manager Access in WGs: Tenants Germany

Many tenants in shared flats are unsure when a property manager or their representative may enter a room and what rights tenants have in Germany. This text clearly explains the legal basics, how you as a tenant can protect your privacy, and which deadlines and forms matter when access is announced or refused. You will receive concrete action steps for conflicts with the property management, tips on documentation and an overview of which courts and authorities are responsible.^[1]

Access rights and privacy in shared-flat rooms

As a rule, tenancy law in the BGB regulates landlord and tenant duties; access by the landlord or a representative is only permitted in narrowly defined cases. No one may enter a locked shared-flat room without the tenant's explicit consent, unless there is an immediate danger or a legal authorization.^[1]

Common reasons for access

• Urgent repairs: In the event of a burst pipe or heating failure, short-term access may be allowed.
• Announced routine checks: Landlord or representative must inform you in good time with a reasonable notice period.
• Handover on move-out: Access for an inspection is common with a scheduled appointment.

How to act as a tenant

When a representative requests access, check the purpose, time and authorization. Request a written announcement or a power of attorney from the property management if you are unsure. Note the name, date and time as well as the reason for access and, if possible, take a third person as a witness.

• Ask for a written notice with date, reason and name of the representative.
• Keep a defect log with photos and timestamps as evidence.
• Contact the property management in writing before refusing or denying access.

If the property management enforces access despite legitimate objections or missing announcements, tenants can take legal action: seek advice from an official body or, if necessary, contact the local court responsible for tenancy disputes.^[2]

Forms and deadlines

• Termination letters / templates: Use official templates for effective notices when terminating or setting deadlines.^[3]
• Observe deadlines: Respond within set deadlines, otherwise rights may be forfeited.
• Repair requests: Set a reasonable deadline for defect remediation and document missed deadlines.

FAQ

Who may enter my shared-flat room without permission?

No one may enter a locked room without your consent, unless there is immediate danger to people or property or an explicit legal basis exists.^[1]

What form must an access announcement take?

A written announcement with date, time, reason and the representative's name is recommended; if unclear, request a power of attorney.

Where do I turn in case of disputes about access?

First contact the property management in writing, then the competent local court or an official advisory service.^[2]

How-To

1. Request a written announcement or power of attorney from the representative.
2. Document time, reason and witnesses and take photos of defects.
3. Contact the property management in writing and set a deadline for clarification if necessary.
4. If no agreement is reached, prepare a claim at the local court or use official advisory services.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Your privacy in a shared-flat room is protected; access is permitted only in narrow cases.
• Written announcements and documentation are your strongest evidence.
• The local court is the first point of contact for tenancy disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung, gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Templates and guidance – Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)