Tenant Rights: Satellite Dish 2025 in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you often need clear information when you want to install a satellite dish. This article explains in plain language which documents, deadlines and official forms are necessary, how to obtain the landlord's consent securely in writing, and which sections of tenancy law are important. I name relevant authorities and forms, show examples of consent statements and describe how to calculate deadlines. Proofs, photos and a written confirmation are particularly important to avoid later disputes. At the end you will find a checklist and instructions on how to submit deadlines and forms correctly.

Which documents do I need?

As a tenant you should have the following documents ready ^[1]:

• Written consent from the landlord or a signed consent template.
• Measurements, location sketch and photos of the planned mounting site.
• Proof of professional installation (e.g. confirmation from a tradesperson).
• If applicable, permits from the building authority (building application).

Deadlines and response times

There is no uniform statutory deadline for landlords to answer a request for permission. Tenants should set a clear written deadline (for example 14 days) and send the request by registered mail or email with read receipt. If the landlord does not respond or unjustifiably refuses, tenants can consider legal steps and, if necessary, seek a decision at the competent local court ^[2].

Official forms and legal basis

The relevant provisions on tenancy law are in the German Civil Code (BGB) (§§ 535–580a) and in the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for court proceedings. For building law issues the Federal Building Code (BauGB) is relevant. Case law of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be decisive ^[3].

Concrete forms and guidance:

• Written consent declaration (sample text): created by the tenant and signed by the landlord; typical content: location, mounting method, liability for damages.
• Building application / permit: if the installation requires permission, the local building authority provides the appropriate form (varies by municipality).
• Installation documentation: photos before/after, invoice from the installer and inspection report.

Practical example: typical process

A tenant prepares a site sketch, obtains an installer quote and sends a letter to the landlord with a deadline for response. After signed consent the installation is performed professionally; invoices and photos are kept.

FAQ

Am I allowed to install a satellite dish as a tenant?

In many cases yes, especially if the installation does not cause permanent damage and the landlord consents; without consent a court may decide whether the installation should be permitted after weighing interests.

Which deadline should I set for the landlord?

Practically, a 14-day deadline for a response is reasonable; this is a guideline rather than a statutory requirement.

When is a building application required?

A building application is required if local building regulations classify the installation as subject to permission; check with your local building authority.

How-To

1. Prepare forms and letter: create a written request for consent with a site sketch and deadline.
2. Gather documents: provide photos, installer quote and technical specifications.
3. Set and send a deadline: request a response within a clear timeframe (e.g. 14 days).
4. Follow up and document: record phone calls and confirm them in writing.
5. Consider legal steps: if refused without reason, seek advice and consider filing at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Baugesetzbuch (BauGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Informationen zu Gerichten (z. B. Amtsgericht) — BMJ
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de