Tenant Entry Rights: Deadlines in Germany

When landlords or contractors request access to the apartment, many tenants in Germany feel uncertain. This text clearly and practically explains which deadlines apply, when you may refuse entry and how to document access requests in writing. I show which rights arise from the BGB, which forms are useful and how to secure photos, appointments and witnesses as evidence. The guide helps you to meet legitimate requests, avoid unnecessary intrusions and be prepared for court if a dispute arises. At the end you will find practical templates, information on responsible courts and links to official leaflets on tenancy law in Germany.

What applies to access?

The landlord has maintenance obligations under tenancy law, which sometimes justify access to the apartment. At the same time, the BGB protects tenants' privacy; when and how access is permitted is governed by law and case law.^[1] In general: announcement, proportionality and proof are decisive.

Typical reasons for access

• Necessary repairs or maintenance (e.g. heating failure, burst pipe)
• Reading meters or billing obligations
• Imminent danger, for example water damage or acute fire risk
• Inspections for legitimate interest, such as sale or re-letting

The landlord usually must announce and justify a reasonable appointment. In emergencies he may enter at short notice; for planned work, deadlines and time windows must be clear.

Deadlines: short, reasonable, documented

• Notice "deadline": common notice is often 24–48 hours for short-term appointments
• For planned work: several days' lead time and specific time windows
• In acute danger: immediate action without prior notice is possible

If you find a deadline unreasonable or an appointment impractical, request a written clarification and propose alternative, reasonable times.

Evidence preservation: how to document correctly

Good evidence preservation is often decisive when there is a dispute about access or damage. Collect data, photos and documents systematically.

• Photos and videos as proof (Beweis / evidence): record date, time and context
• Save correspondence: emails, letters, SMS and notes
• Note witnesses: name, phone number, reason
• Appointment protocols: who was present, why, which work was carried out

Forms and templates tenants can use

There are various official forms and template letters tenants can use, for example for defect notices, setting deadlines or initiating court action. Use formulations such as "Notice of defect X and a deadline until DD.MM.YYYY for remedy" and give clear calls to action.

• Defect notice / complaint: describe the defect, time and desired deadline
• Application for an interim injunction (in urgent rights violations) – only for urgent cases
• Complaint form for tenancy disputes at the local court (eviction, rent reduction cases)

Use official guidance from the judiciary and the Federal Ministry of Justice on proper submission and deadlines.^[2]

If the landlord seeks unjustified access

You may refuse access if there is no legal basis or if the notice is insufficient. Refuse calmly but document the refusal in writing and explain the reasons to the landlord. If the landlord acts without legal right, civil action may follow.

Practical sample letters for tenants

• Defect notice wording: "I hereby notify defect X and set a deadline until DD.MM.YYYY for remedy."
• Response to access request: "I am available on DD.MM between HH:MM and HH:MM. Please confirm the appointment in writing."

FAQ

May the landlord enter without permission?

Only in emergencies or when statutory or contractual rights permit this; otherwise reasonable notice and justification are required.

What deadlines are common?

For short-term appointments 24–48 hours is common; for planned work several days should be allowed.

How should I preserve evidence?

Photos, videos, date/time stamps, witness statements and saved written communication are the most important evidence.

How-To

1. Document the issue with date, photos and, if applicable, witnesses
2. Write a defect notice and set a clear deadline
3. Contact the landlord in writing and offer reasonable appointment options
4. If necessary, inform the local court or seek legal advice
5. Keep all documents and responses organized

Help and Support

• [1] Gesetze im Internet (BGB §§ 535–580a)
• [2] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case information
• [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – guidance and forms

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535: Content and primary duties of the lease
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – information on decisions
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – forms and guidance