Retrofit Elevator: Tenants & Funding in Germany

Many tenants in Germany consider whether an elevator can be retrofitted in their apartment building — for example to improve accessibility for older or mobility-impaired residents. As a tenant you should know which funding is possible, who may bear the costs and what approvals from the owners' association or the landlord are required. This guide explains in practical terms how to identify funding programs (for example KfW), which forms and deadlines are important, how cost allocation can appear legally, and when a local court (Amtsgericht) is competent. It contains concrete action steps, examples of applications and tips for documentation so that, as a tenant, you can assert your rights in Germany more securely. If landlords or the owners' association do not cooperate, we explain your options for mediation, formal applications and legal steps before the local court.

Why an elevator is important for tenants

An elevator increases accessibility and can significantly improve living quality for older or mobility-impaired tenants. Whether and how an elevator is installed depends on technical, financial and legal factors: building permits, approval of the owners' association and possible funding programs play a role. Inform yourself early and collect evidence of need (e.g. medical certificates, photos of the staircase situation).

Funding and forms

In many cases, retrofit projects are eligible for funding. The best-known program for age-appropriate conversion is managed by KfW; local state funding or municipal grants may also be possible. Typical relevant forms:

• Application for KfW funding "Age-appropriate Conversion" (check current program numbers): application for grants or low-interest loans, to be submitted before construction starts. ^[2]
• Building permit application at the responsible municipality / building authority: if installation requires permission, submit a building application with the owner or landlord.
• Owners' association forms: resolution templates on cost-sharing or meeting minutes can be used as proof of approvals.

Tenants' rights and legal bases

Tenants' rights regarding modernization and cost bearing are derived from the German Civil Code (BGB), e.g. §§ 535–580a. For modernization measures landlords can announce modernizations and under certain conditions pass on costs to tenants, but measures to improve accessibility often involve special rules and balancing with social protection and hardship cases. In case of disputes about consent, costs or use, tenants should observe deadlines and file timely objections or exemption requests. ^[1]

Cost allocation and practical examples

Whether tenants have to pay directly usually depends on the ownership structure and contracts. Examples:

• Landlord bears main costs, tenants benefit without direct payment: common when the property value increases.
• Modernization surcharge: part of the costs can be charged to tenants if legally permitted and properly announced.
• Funding reduces overall costs: public grants or low-interest loans can reduce surcharges.

If owners or landlords do not cooperate

If the owners' association or landlord refuses, consider these steps: seek dialogue, send a written claim with justification, apply for mediation, or as a last resort file a lawsuit at the competent local court (Amtsgericht). The local court is typically the first instance for tenancy disputes in Germany. ^[3]

FAQ

Can my landlord force me to pay for the elevator?

Generally a landlord can announce modernization measures; whether costs may be passed on depends on legal rules and funding and must be checked individually.

Which funding is relevant for tenants?

Grants and low-interest loans (e.g. KfW programs) and municipal support can be relevant; often applicants must apply before construction begins.

Where to turn in case of dispute about consent or costs?

First seek dialogue and mediation; if disputes persist, the local court (Amtsgericht) is the competent authority for tenancy disputes.

How-To

1. Observe deadlines: check deadlines in modernization notices and submit a timely response (e.g. objection).
2. Check funding opportunities and prepare applications: apply for KfW funding and clarify building permit requirements before starting work.
3. Collect documentation: secure proof of need, medical certificates, photos and all correspondence.
4. Talk to landlord/owners' association: arrange a meeting and record proposals for cost sharing in writing.
5. Mediation or court: if disagreement persists, consider mediation or pursue legal clarification at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Early research helps secure funding and agreement.
• Complete documentation supports negotiations and legal claims.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• KfW — program and application information
• Justizportal — local court information

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] KfW — funding programs and application information
3. [3] Justice Portal — information on local courts