Service Dog: Costs & Rights for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of whether and how they can keep a service dog in their apartment and what costs are involved. This text explains in plain language the legal basics for tenants, which documents and medical certificates are helpful, which public supports or subsidies may be possible, and which authorities are responsible. You will learn how to review and, if necessary, challenge a landlord's refusal. We also show practical steps for collecting evidence, information on deadlines and which forms are required. The goal is to enable tenants in Germany to act and to make communication with landlords and authorities easier.

Who is allowed to keep a service dog?

In principle, tenants with a recognized impairment can argue that a service dog is a necessary aid. The tenancy does not change automatically, but landlords must show reasonable consideration when the presence of the dog is necessary for independence. Legal foundations on tenant and landlord duties can be found in the relevant provisions of the BGB^[1].

Financing: subsidies, health insurance, integration office

Financing options vary: some health insurers or social assistance agencies may cover part of the costs, in special cases the integration office pays, or there are municipal grants. Important are a medical certificate, a professional justification (e.g., from a rehabilitation facility) and proof of expenses such as training or medical care.

• Health insurance: apply for cost coverage for aids or therapy accompaniment.
• Integration office/service providers: check for grants for purchase and training.
• Housing benefit or social assistance: check if additional costs can be considered.

Forms, evidence and deadlines

The following documents are practical for applications and talks with the landlord or authority:

• Medical certificate that describes the need for the service dog.
• Report from a specialist center or rehabilitation facility with justification and proof of training.
• Invoices and cost estimates for purchase, training and ongoing care.

What to do if the landlord refuses?

First: seek a conversation and present evidence. Request a written justification from the landlord and point out the medical necessity. If no agreement is reached, consider legal action; tenancy disputes about usage rights and exceptions are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht). Information on court procedures and eviction lawsuits can be found in the Code of Civil Procedure and at the courts^[2].

FAQ

Can the landlord unconditionally ban keeping a service dog?

No. A blanket ban is only possible if there is no medical necessity or the landlord's legitimate protection interests outweigh; each case must be examined individually.

Who pays for training and purchase?

It can depend on health insurance, the integration office, social welfare, or private funds; check application routes and required evidence early.

Which courts are responsible in a dispute?

Local courts (Amtsgerichte) are the first instance for tenancy disputes; in appeals, regional courts (Landgerichte) and later the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) may be relevant.

How-To

1. Collect medical certificates and specialist reports that document the need for your service dog.
2. Contact your health insurer and the integration service to clarify funding options and submit applications.
3. Compile invoices and receipts for purchase, training and care.
4. Inform the landlord in writing, attach the evidence and request a reasoned decision.
5. If necessary: seek legal advice and prepare a case at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – Civil Code (BGB) and other statutes
• Federal Court of Justice – decisions on tenancy law
• Federal Ministry of Justice – information and templates

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz – bmj.de