Ramp & Door Widening: Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany need barrier-free access in older buildings, such as ramps or wider doors, whether due to their own mobility limits or visitors. This article explains in clear language what rights and duties tenants and landlords have, which government funding programs may apply, and which forms or proofs are often required. You will get concrete steps for applying, practical advice for discussing changes with the landlord and tips for documenting defects or obstacles. The goal is to help you, as a tenant, check financing options, file grant applications and act in time without needing legal background. I list typical contact points, authorities and court levels, and link to official forms and laws. At the end you will find a step-by-step guide and answers to common questions.

What tenants need to know

Landlords are generally obliged under German tenancy law to maintain the property in the agreed condition; relevant rules are in §§ 535–580a BGB^[1]. Whether the landlord must pay for a ramp or door widening depends on whether the measure is maintenance, contractually agreed, or a tenant-requested alteration. Tenants should always ask for written consent and clarify cost allocation before changes.

Funding and government support

There are several funding routes tenants can check: KfW grants for age-appropriate renovation, benefits from the long-term care insurance for home-environment improvements, and municipal or state programs under the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[2].

• KfW programs for age-appropriate renovations (grants or loans), apply via the KfW website.
• Long-term care insurance: grants for home-environment improvements if care needs exist; apply first with the responsible care fund.
• Municipal funds or social welfare agencies: local applications at the social office or housing promotion office may be required.

Forms and evidence

Important documents often include medical certificates, contractor quotes, cost estimates, photos of the access and written requests to the landlord. For KfW grants use the application forms on kfw.de^[3]. Information on benefits from long-term care insurance and how to apply is available from the Federal Ministry of Health^[4].

Practical steps before renovation

1. Step 1: Review medical evidence and contractor quotes.
2. Step 2: Contact the landlord in writing and submit documents.
3. Step 3: Check funding options and submit applications before work begins.
4. Step 4: Have work done by qualified tradespeople and keep receipts.

Disputes and court steps

If a dispute arises, local courts (Amtsgerichte) usually handle tenancy disputes first; appeals go to the Landgericht and possibly the Federal Court of Justice. Seek advice before filing a lawsuit and observe deadlines.

FAQ

Who pays for the ramp — landlord or tenant?

It depends on the case: if the measure is maintenance, the landlord usually pays; for special requests the applicant often pays unless agreed otherwise.

Can I modify the apartment without permission?

No, structural changes usually require prior written consent from the landlord.

Which funding sources can I apply for?

KfW grants, long-term care insurance benefits and municipal programs are possible sources; check eligibility and deadlines before starting work.

How-To

1. Step 1: Gather medical evidence and quotes.
2. Step 2: Contact the landlord in writing and provide documents.
3. Step 3: Submit funding applications to KfW or your care fund and wait for decisions.
4. Step 4: Have work performed professionally and keep records.

Help and Support

• §§ 535–580a BGB (Tenancy Law)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Federal Ministry of Health - Long-term Care Insurance

1. [1] BGB - Civil Code (German)
2. [2] WoFG - Housing Promotion Act (German)
3. [3] KfW Bank Group - Age-appropriate conversions
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Health - Information on long-term care insurance