Tenant Rights: Approving Stairlift in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you face particular questions when a stairlift is to be installed. This text plainly explains which consents you need, how to apply for funding and which steps are legally secure — without legal jargon. We cover when the landlord must consent, which costs you may bear yourself, how rent adjustments or removal are regulated and how courts decide in similar cases. We also show practical templates for requests and which official forms and authorities are relevant so that, as a tenant, you can enforce your rights and use viable funding paths. Read on for clear action steps and wording suggestions and notes.

What tenants need to know

Tenants normally must obtain the landlord's consent if structural changes such as a stairlift are to be permanently installed. Legal bases can be found in the BGB and case law; in disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) or, on appeal, the regional court (Landgericht) or Federal Court of Justice may decide.^[1]

When is consent required?

• Permanently structural alteration to the staircase that changes substance or layout.
• When access, safety, or escape routes are affected.
• When obligations for removal or possible future rent reductions are expected.

Practically this means: ask the landlord in writing, attach technical data from the manufacturer and propose a concrete schedule for installation and removal.

Funding and official forms

There are state funding programs that support the installation of stairlifts. A central offer is the KfW "Altersgerecht Umbauen" program with grants and loans for barrier-reducing measures; use the KfW forms for grant 455 or loan 159 as appropriate.^[2] Additionally, care insurance funds can cover measures to improve the living environment under § 40 SGB XI; an application must be filed with the responsible care fund.^[3]

How to apply: wording suggestions

Send a short, factual request to the landlord. State purpose, technical data, installer company and deadlines for installation and removal. Request a written consent or a reasoned refusal.

Template

Dear Mr./Ms. [Name], I hereby request consent to install a stairlift in the apartment/at the staircase at [address]. Manufacturer/model: [details]. Installation period: [date]. Costs are to be covered by a KfW grant or the care fund (if approved). Please provide a written decision by [date]. Sincerely, [Name].

FAQ

Who pays for a stairlift?

Generally the party who initiates the measure bears the costs; funding from KfW or the care fund can reduce expenses.

Can the landlord refuse consent?

Yes, the landlord can refuse for important reasons such as structural risk, fire or escape route concerns; a blanket refusal is not always permissible.

Do I have to remove the stairlift when moving out?

This can be contractually agreed or the landlord may demand removal if it is reasonable; arrange this in writing before installation.

How-To

1. Step 1: Inform the landlord in writing and attach technical documents.
2. Step 2: Clarify funding entitlements with KfW or your care fund.
3. Step 3: Submit funding applications (e.g., KfW grant 455) and quotes.
4. Step 4: Hire a certified installer and agree dates in writing.
5. Step 5: Document installation, approvals, and any removal agreements.

Help and Support

• German Civil Code (BGB) – Tenancy law
• KfW funding program "Altersgerecht Umbauen"
• Federal Ministry of Health – Information on care insurance

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] KfW Bankengruppe – Program "Altersgerecht Umbauen"
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Health – Care insurance benefits (§ 40 SGB XI)