Tenant Rights: Pets in Germany 2025

Tenants with pets often face uncertainty: which rules apply in Germany when the lease, house rules or local tenancy law include restrictions? In this guide I explain in clear language which common mistakes tenants make — from missing written consent to insufficient documentation of damage — and how you can enforce your rights as a tenant. You will get practical steps for conversations with the landlord, formal requests, deadlines and which evidence is important. The aim is to resolve conflicts early, prepare legally secure documents and, if necessary, know the appropriate judicial or administrative steps. The guidance is oriented to German tenancy law and common court decisions.

Rights and Obligations

As a tenant, you have specific duties and entitlements under the Civil Code: use of the rental property, consideration for neighbors and the duty to report damage. However, not every pet rule in the lease is automatically valid: blanket bans can, in some cases, be invalid. Read your lease carefully and check whether restrictions are proportionate or whether landlord consent is required.^[1]

Practical Steps

• Obtain written permission (form): Ask the landlord for written permission for your pet and keep the response.
• Check the lease and house rules (notice): Note any clauses concerning animals and mark unclear wording.
• Create documentation (evidence): Photograph the apartment and any damage, keep a dated log and collect receipts.
• Report damage immediately (repair): Inform the landlord in writing about defects or damage and request repairs if necessary.
• Observe deadlines (deadline): Respond within set deadlines to warnings or claims, otherwise legal disadvantages may follow.

If the landlord unjustifiably forbids keeping a pet, you can seek a conversation and insist on a written justification. If necessary, file a written objection and set a deadline for a response. In disputes it is sensible to obtain official advice beforehand.

Dispute Resolution and Court

If agreement fails, tenancy disputes can be heard at the local court (Amtsgericht); higher instances are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice. In lawsuits, the rules of civil procedure apply, especially deadlines and formal requirements for filing claims^[2][3].

FAQ

Can the landlord generally prohibit pets?

A general prohibition is not always automatically valid; it depends on the individual case, the type of pet and the circumstances. Check contractual clauses and proportionality.

Do I have to pay for damage at the end of the tenancy?

Tenants are generally liable for damage caused by pets; documented normal wear and tear, however, is not a reason for liability.

Where can I turn if the landlord does not cooperate despite discussion?

Seek official advice or consider legal action at the local court; take into account legal aid and deadlines.

How-To

1. Write a formal request to the landlord describing the pet and the rules you will follow (form).
2. Document the situation (evidence): photos, pet behavior, neighbor statements.
3. Seek official advice (call) from a government advisory service or legal counsel.
4. If necessary, prepare a lawsuit and file it at the competent local court (court).

Key Takeaways

• Not every lease clause is legally binding; assess each case individually.
• Documentation is crucial: photos, dates and written communication protect you.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a on Gesetze-im-Internet
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – tenancy decisions

1. [1] Gesetze-im-Internet: BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze-im-Internet: ZPO (Zivilprozessordnung)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)