Tenant Checklist for Ramps & Door Widening Germany
As a tenant in Germany, converting entrances for wheelchair users – such as ramps or door widening – can be urgently needed. This guide is aimed at tenants and shared flats: it explains your rights under tenancy law, when you need landlord consent, which funding options may be available and what a practical process can look like. We describe a clear checklist, the necessary evidence, typical forms and examples of applying to authorities. The goal is that you can request structural measures legally, check funding options and document the implementation without legal prior knowledge.
Legal foundations
Fundamentally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the rental property (§ 535 BGB). Interventions such as ramps or door widenings usually require the landlord's permission.[1] In disputes over consent or implementation, civil procedure rules may become relevant; the Code of Civil Procedure regulates deadlines and court procedures.[2]
Checklist: Steps before planning and installation
- Obtain landlord consent (notice/form) – in writing, with sketches and measurements.
- Check funding options (money) – apply for possible grants or loans.
- Commission technical planning (inspect) – check dimensions, load-bearing capacity and fire safety.
- Create documentation (evidence) – collect photos, quotes and correspondence.
- Select a specialist contractor (repair/maintenance) – obtain cost estimates.
Funding and forms
Funding for barrier reduction can be regulated at federal or state level; the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) contains central rules on funded housing and modernization support.[3] Practical funding examples include grants for adapting apartments within vocational rehabilitation or benefits from long-term care insurance; check responsibilities with municipalities and social benefit providers.
Responsible authorities and courts
For unclear legal questions, the local court (Amtsgericht) handles tenancy disputes and higher courts such as the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) address appellate or precedent issues.[4]
FAQ
- Do I always need the landlord's permission for a ramp?
- Yes, structural changes to the rental property generally require the landlord's consent; exceptions are rare.
- Can I apply for funding myself?
- In many cases yes: tenants or residents can submit grant applications, often together with the landlord or the responsible benefits provider.
- What if the landlord refuses?
- Document the reason for refusal, seek legal advice and consider clarification before the local court.
How-To
- Clarify contact and need: Discuss with all flatmates and the affected person the necessity.
- Notify the landlord in writing: Send an informal letter with a sketch and request for consent.
- Collect quotes and evidence: Obtain technical assessments and cost estimates.
- Submit funding application: File documents with responsible authorities or insurers.
- Oversee execution: Arrange appointments, check invoices and final documentation.
Key points on procedure
Observe deadlines, answer submissions in writing and keep all documents organized. If costs are to be covered, clarify responsibility and potential reclaiming before work begins.
