Ramp & Door Widening: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany need structural changes such as ramps or door widening for mobility or health reasons. This text clearly explains which rights tenants have, how to obtain the consent of the condominium owners' association (WEG) and which legal foundations must be observed. We describe practical steps, useful wording suggestions for applications, as well as deadlines and possible cost coverage so that as a tenant you can secure and enforce accessibility in a legally safe way.

What tenants in WEG buildings need to know

In WEG buildings, approval for structural changes often depends on the consent of the owners' association. Contractual obligations of the landlord and tenants' rights arise from the Civil Code (BGB) and supplementary regulations; central norms can be found in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] In parallel, the provisions of the Condominium Act (WEG) regulate consent and resolution procedures within the owners' association.^[2]

In disputes over consent or costs, resolution can be sought before a local court; the local court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance for many tenancy and housing law disputes.^[3]

How to apply for a ramp or door widening

Complete these steps before any structural change is carried out:

• Form or written application: Draft an informal letter to the landlord and WEG administration detailing the specific measure, location and justification.
• Evidence and documentation: Attach medical certificates, photos of entrances and a simple floor plan.
• Specify deadlines: Request a decision within a clear timeframe (e.g., 4–6 weeks).
• Safety and restoration clause: Propose how safety will be ensured and restoration on moving out will be handled.
• Cost clarification: Determine in advance who bears the costs (tenant, landlord, funding).

A brief sample letter can begin: "I hereby request permission as a tenant to install a ramp at the apartment door due to limited mobility; attached are a medical certificate and photos." Submit it in writing to the property management and the WEG board.

Practical notes on costs and funding

Accessible measures can be costly. Check for government grants or municipal subsidies; in some cases there is assistance for measures improving the residential environment. Also clarify whether cost shifting to the community is legally permissible or whether the landlord/WEG will request reimbursement.

FAQ

Who decides on structural changes in a WEG?

The owners' association usually decides by resolution; significant alterations often require a qualified majority under WEG law.

Can a tenant enforce consent?

Under certain conditions, a court application can succeed, especially when health needs and reasonableness considerations are present.

Who pays for ramps or door widenings?

This depends on the individual case: tenant, landlord, WEG or funding bodies may share costs; check written agreements.

How-To

1. Gather evidence: medical certificate, photos, measurements and, if applicable, cost estimates.
2. Write an application: send an informal application to landlord and WEG with a clear deadline (e.g., 4 weeks).
3. Seek discussion: coordinate with the WEG board or property management on implementation.
4. Check funding: research possible grants and record cost agreements in writing.
5. Legal clarification: if refused, consider legal steps and possibly file for clarification at the local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – Condominium Act (WEG)
• Justice Portal – Information on Courts

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Wohnungseigentumsgesetz (WEG) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Justizportal – Informationen zu Gerichten