Tenant Rights: Pets Rules in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, keeping a pet can raise many questions about noise, damage and house rules. This article explains in practical terms how tenant rights and duties regarding pets work, how to agree fair rules with the landlord and neighbours, and which administrative or court steps are possible. You will get clear guidance on written agreements, documentation of damage, how to respond to complaints and which forms or deadlines matter. The aim is to resolve conflicts without escalation, protect living quality and minimise legal risks. The language remains simple so that tenants in Germany without legal training can understand their options and act confidently.

Coordinate pets with neighbours and landlord

Before meeting neighbours or the landlord, check the tenancy agreement and house rules. Under German tenancy law, keeping pets can be permitted or restricted; if unclear, the regulations in the German Civil Code (BGB) on the use of rented property and the duties of landlord and tenant are relevant^[1]. If there are persistent disturbances or damage, written documentation is important.

Before the clarifying conversation

• Propose a date and record the appointment and its duration.
• Have documents ready: vaccination record, tenancy agreement, photos or videos for documentation.
• Clarify who covers damages or extra cleaning costs.
• Formulate concrete rule proposals: walk times, leash rules in hallways, visiting hours.
• Offer alternatives: additional deposit, liability insurance or a trial period.

Conduct the conversation calmly and document the results in writing. A simple email exchange or a short confirmation by letter is often sufficient; keep copies.

Rights and duties under the BGB

Tenants have the right to use the rented property as agreed; the landlord must maintain the property. With pets, it depends on contract terms, house rules and the animal's behaviour. If keeping pets is explicitly prohibited, this can be binding if individually agreed. If there is no explicit rule, case-by-case solutions are common; in disputes, courts such as the local court or higher instances often decide^[1][3].

When neighbours complain or file claims

For recurring noise complaints, document date, time and type of disturbance. Ask the neighbour for a written statement or prepare a short incident report yourself. Respond promptly and offer solutions; if complaints continue, court action may follow.

Forms and templates for tenants

For certain steps there are official templates or recommended model letters. Examples and typical uses:

• Termination letter (tenant): Sample text for ordinary termination when moving out; use when you want to end the tenancy.
• Written defect notification / report of disturbances: No nationwide mandatory form, but a dated letter with defect description and a deadline is practically important.
• Eviction suit / complaint form: For persistent disputes, courts accept formal complaints under the ZPO; check with your local court for forms and filing^[2][4].

Practical steps in a dispute

If talks fail, follow stepped measures: documentation, conciliation attempt, written request, and if necessary, complaint at the local court or contacting a mediation service. The rules of the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) are relevant for lawsuits and eviction cases^[2].

FAQ

Am I allowed to keep a pet as a tenant?

Often yes. Key factors are the tenancy agreement, house rules and the pet's behaviour. If wording is unclear, cases are decided individually; courts may rule on disputes.

Do I need the landlord's permission?

If the tenancy agreement or house rules prohibit pets, permission is required. In case of tacit tolerance, customary practice may arise; written confirmation is safer.

What should I do about noise or damage?

Document incidents, inform the landlord in writing and propose solutions. If disputes continue, local courts and legal proceedings are possible steps.

How-To

1. Check the tenancy agreement and house rules immediately for pet provisions.
2. Set up a meeting with the landlord and, if relevant, affected neighbours; record date and topics.
3. Draft a written agreement (who pays costs, rules, trial period) and have all parties sign it.
4. Keep a log of incidents (noise, damage) including dates and evidence.
5. If necessary: file formal letters or approach the local court for resolution; observe ZPO deadlines.

Help and Support

• Local courts information (Justiz.de)
• BGB (Gesetze im Internet)
• ZPO (Gesetze im Internet)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet (ZPO)
3. [3] Justiz.de (Information on local courts)
4. [4] Justiz.de (Forms and guidance)