Ramp & Door Widening: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany need ramps or door widenings in older buildings so daily life and mobility work safely. Legally, changes to the rental property are possible but often require landlord consent, deadlines, cost sharing and sometimes building permits. This article explains in plain language how tenants can request an accessibility modification in writing, which rights the BGB provides, which funding or permit rules on state and municipal levels might apply, and how to prepare evidence and forms. It also shows practical steps if the landlord refuses and which courts are responsible. The aim is to make tenants in Germany able to act and confident when enforcing necessary conversions.

What applies legally?

According to the German Civil Code (BGB), the landlord must hand over and maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for contractual use. Many accessibility modifications affect usability; therefore consent, permission conditions and possible cost questions must be clarified.^[1]

How can tenants request ramps or door widenings?

A written and specific request is the first step. Documentation and deadlines are important, as are copies of medical certificates or notices when a particular necessity exists.

• Written request to the landlord describing the modification, purpose, desired timing and a deadline for a response.
• Attach photos, measurements and, if applicable, medical certificates as evidence.
• Set a deadline and document timelines so response times can be proven later.
• Clarify whether building permits or structural checks are required.

Costs, funding and permits

Cost issues are often disputed: in principle, the landlord can attach conditions to consent or negotiate cost sharing. There are municipal and state funding programs and special rules for social benefits; check local grant options and housing law (WoFG) for claims.^[2]

• Check for possible grants or funding from your municipality or state.
• Enquire early about permit requirements with the building authority.
• Keep cost estimates and invoices ready for later proof.

What to do if your request is denied?

If the landlord refuses legitimate adaptation requests, consider enforcing consent through the courts or seeking an amicable solution. Local courts (Amtsgerichte) are usually responsible for tenancy disputes; higher instances are the regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

FAQ

Can I install a ramp without the landlord's consent?

Generally, tenants need the landlord's consent for structural changes; in certain cases courts can order consent if there is medical necessity and landlord duties are affected.

Do I have to restore the original condition when I move out?

Landlords often require reversion; clarify reversion rules in writing before starting work.

Who decides about disputes over funding or permits?

Municipal building authorities and social offices are usually responsible; the local court is the first instance for legal questions.

How-To

1. Draft a written request with description, purpose and deadline.
2. Attach photos, measurements, medical certificates and estimates.
3. Research and apply for funding with your municipality or state early.
4. If no agreement is reached, consider filing a claim at your local court or seeking legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – WoFG
• justiz.de – Court jurisdictions

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] justiz.de – Court jurisdictions