Ramps & Door Widening: Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in a WEG building, structural adaptations such as a ramp or door widening can greatly ease daily life. Many wonder who covers the costs, how to obtain the owners' association's consent and which funding options are available in Germany. This guide explains in plain language what rights and duties tenants have, how to check eligible programs as an affected person, which official forms are relevant and how to communicate step by step with the landlord, the WEG and authorities. The information helps you prepare applications, observe deadlines and resolve conflicts objectively without presupposing legal expertise. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and references to official institutions in Germany.
What tenants should know
Whether installing a ramp or widening a door is permissible and who bears the costs depends on the rental agreement, the landlord's obligations to maintain the rented property and the rules of the owners' association (WEG). Relevant provisions on the rental relationship can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB, §§ 535–580a).[1] If structural measures are only possible by intervening in common property, the WEG's consent is usually required.
Practical steps for tenants
- Contact the landlord in writing, describe the need and request consent.
- Collect documentation: photos, medical certificates and quotes from tradespeople.
- Check funding options and grants, e.g. for age-appropriate or barrier-free renovations.
- Submit formal applications to the landlord, WEG administration or responsible authorities; include deadlines and offers.
- If consent is refused, consider legal options and the possibility of resolving the matter at the local court.
Who pays and what is the WEG's role?
For measures that serve only the private living area, the tenant or owner is usually responsible at their own expense. Interventions in common property (e.g. stairwell ramp, door openings in communal areas) require the owners' association's consent; often a simple majority or a qualified majority is necessary. Discuss scope, quotes and possible cost-sharing early.
Funding and official forms
In Germany there are funding programs for barrier-free living as well as social benefits that can reduce conversion costs. Examples include programs for age-appropriate modifications or grants from local social offices. Rules for legal actions and eviction claims follow the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO).[2] For state funding programs and application forms, check the respective bodies (e.g. KfW programs for housing adjustments).[3]
FAQ
- Can I as a tenant install a ramp without the WEG's consent?
- No. Interventions in common property generally require the owners' association's consent; limited changes inside your apartment may be possible if communal areas are not affected.
- Who might cover the costs in a dispute?
- It depends on the case: possible payers are tenants, landlords, the WEG (if there is community interest) or funding agencies; courts can decide claims in legal proceedings.
- Where do I file funding applications?
- Funding applications are filed with the respective funding bank or authority; check programs for age-appropriate modifications and local social assistance offices.
How-To
- Make contact: write to the landlord and WEG administration, describe the need and attach initial evidence.
- Obtain quotes: request several cost estimates from qualified tradespeople.
- Apply formally: submit a written application to the WEG or landlord and attach offers and certificates.
- Check funding: apply for grants or loans in good time with the responsible bodies.
- In case of dispute: seek legal advice; in extreme cases, a lawsuit at the local court may be necessary.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB: German Civil Code (Gesetze im Internet)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions
- KfW: Age-appropriate conversion funding
