Tenant Rights: Ramp & Door Widening in Germany

Many tenant families in Germany consider how to finance access solutions such as ramps or door widenings in old buildings without immediately hiring a lawyer. This text explains clearly what rights tenants have, when landlords must consent, which subsidy programs or grants are possible, and which steps are sensible before a conversion. We describe practical evidence, such as cost estimates, medical certificates and applications to authorities, and name the courts and legal bases that are responsible in case of dispute. The goal is to give families concrete action steps so that barrier-free conversions become legally secure and financially plannable.

What tenants should know

Landlords and tenants share maintenance and adaptation duties of the rental property; in questions about obligations and termination, the rules of tenancy law apply.^[1]

Preparation: Documents and evidence

Before having work done, collect evidence and offers. These documents are important later for agreements with the landlord and for possible subsidy applications.

• Obtain and compare cost estimates from craftsmen.
• Medical certificates describing the mobility needs.
• Take photos of the condition of the door and access.
• Send a written request for consent to the landlord; set a deadline for response.

Rights, financing routes and deadlines

Landlords do not always have to bear necessary measures completely, but unjustified refusals can be challenged; it is worthwhile to check funding options, housing allowance or WBS and to strive for a written cost agreement. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides on entitlement and cost allocation.^[2]

• Check applications for housing allowance or WBS to apply for grants.
• Check state programs and municipal subsidies for cost-sharing.
• Aim for a written agreement with the landlord on costs and reinstatement.
• In case of dispute: file a claim at the local court or seek advice.^[2]

How to proceed without a lawyer

Many steps can be taken independently: inform, gather documents, communicate in writing with the landlord and apply for subsidies. A neutral advisory center or the local tenants' association can check for free whether a lawyer is necessary.

• Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for response.
• Attach cost estimates and certificates as annexes.
• Contact advisory centers or the tenants' association if uncertain.

FAQ

Who pays for the ramp or door widening?

That depends on purpose, agreement and subsidies; costs are often shared or reduced by grants.

Can the landlord simply refuse?

No, an unjustified refusal can be challengeable; under § 535 BGB there are obligations to maintain the rental property.^[1]

Where to turn in legal disputes?

For tenancy disputes, the local court is generally responsible; important precedents come from the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3]

How-To

1. Check necessity and obtain a medical certificate.
2. Obtain at least two cost estimates.
3. Send a written request and copies of offers to the landlord.
4. Check funding options at the municipality or state and apply if necessary.
5. If necessary, file documents with the local court or seek advice.

Help and Support

• BGB §§ 535–580a (Gesetze im Internet)
• Justice Portal of the Federation and the Länder
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

---

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Justizportal des Bundes und der Länder — justiz.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law — bundesgerichtshof.de