Ramp and Door Widening for Tenants in Germany
Many tenants in Germany sometimes need structural adjustments like ramps or door widening to continue living independently in their homes. This guide explains available funding, which rights apply under tenancy law and how you as a tenant can negotiate with the landlord and authorities. I describe necessary steps: documenting the need, obtaining cost estimates, applying for funding and legal steps in case of refusal. Practical examples and official forms as well as contacts are named so you can specifically apply for a ramp or door widening. The aim is to give you clear, step-by-step recommendations so modifications are safe, financially feasible and legally secure. The information refers to applicable law in Germany and names official contact points for subsidies and court contacts. In urgent conflicts, early legal advice is recommended.
Planning and Funding Options
First check whether landlord consent is required and what obligations exist under tenancy law, in particular regarding maintenance and alterations according to the relevant provisions of the BGB §§ 535–580a.[1] In disputes about access or modification, the local court (Amtsgericht) may be competent; further instances follow the rules of the ZPO.[2]
Funding for accessibility modernization comes from various sources: state housing promotion under the WoFG,[3] benefits from the nursing care insurance under § 40 SGB XI for home environment improvements,[4] and promotional loans or grants such as the KfW "Altersgerecht Umbauen" program.[5] Applications usually require cost estimates, proof of necessity (e.g. medical certificate) and photos of the situation.
Important Documents
- Photos of the existing threshold, door and stairs to document the need.
- At least two cost estimates from specialist companies for ramp and door widening.
- Medical certificate or care level as proof of the necessity of the modification.
- Completed application forms of the respective funding body (KfW application, nursing care insurance or state housing promotion).
Rights, Consent and Cost Allocation
In many cases, smaller changes affecting the use of the rented property must be agreed with the landlord; larger interventions require their consent. If the landlord agrees, clarify in writing who bears the costs and whether a dismantling agreement applies. If you cannot agree, neutral advice or, in case of dispute, judicial clarification often helps.
If the landlord refuses, examine whether reasonableness or a tenant's legitimate interest exists. Costs can often be fully or partially covered by funding; check the eligibility requirements of the respective authority.
FAQ
- Do I always need the landlord's permission for a ramp or door widening?
- Yes, typically consent is required for structural changes; clarify scope and costs in writing and, if applicable, present a funding decision as a financing plan.
- Which funding options should I check?
- Check state housing promotion, the KfW "Altersgerecht Umbauen" program and benefits from the nursing care insurance under § 40 SGB XI; responsibility depends on your individual case.
- What can I do if the landlord refuses?
- Document the need, apply for funding yourself and seek early legal advice; disputes can be clarified at the local court.
How-To
- Document the need with photos, a medical certificate and short notes on the impairment.
- Obtain two cost estimates from certified craft businesses.
- Submit funding applications (e.g. KfW or nursing care insurance) and attach supporting documents.
- Agree the installation date and access arrangements with the landlord in writing.
- In case of refusal or dispute, prepare documents for clarification and contact the local court if necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- KfW promotional bank – information on the Altersgerecht Umbauen program
- [SGB XI § 40] Home environment improvements – gesetze-im-internet.de
- Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) – gesetze-im-internet.de
