Tenant Rights: Tradesperson Access in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you may often face the question of how to manage access for tradespeople when you are not at home. This text explains plainly and practically which rights and obligations tenants and landlords have, when you must allow entry and how to refuse legitimate appointments. You will receive sample letters for refusal or authorization, a practical checklist for key handovers, and guidance on documentation and deadlines. Step by step I show how to ensure repairs take place, protect your privacy, and avoid legal pitfalls. Specific forms, competent courts and legal bases are named so you can make informed decisions.

Rights and Obligations

In principle, the provisions of tenancy law in §§ 535–580a BGB regulate the obligations of landlord and tenant; this concerns maintenance obligations and permissible access.^[1] A landlord may not demand arbitrary access; repair appointments must be announced and reasonable. In urgent dangers (e.g. water damage) immediate action may be necessary; in such cases, document the situation and inform the landlord promptly.

Practical rules for absence

• Agree appointments in writing by e-mail or letter and note time and tradesperson company.
• Grant a limited authorization only in writing, with name and clear duration.
• Before departure, take photo or video documentation of the affected area as evidence.
• Refuse unjustified demands and request written proof from the landlord in case of dispute.

If serious disputes arise (e.g. termination or eviction), legal proceedings are possible; the rules of civil procedure (ZPO) apply to actions such as eviction claims.^[2] Rental disputes are usually heard in the first instance at the local court (Amtsgericht); your documents and evidence are decisive there.^[3]

FAQ

Can the landlord let tradespeople into my flat without my consent?

No, unauthorized entry is generally not permitted; exceptions apply in cases of imminent danger or where a contractual agreement exists.

How should I word a refusal correctly?

State the reason briefly, refuse permission for key handover, and offer alternative appointments; use a sample letter to secure evidence.

What should I do if damage occurs after a tradesperson visit?

Document the damage and time, inform the landlord immediately in writing and request an inspection or damage report.

How-To

1. Arrange the appointment in writing: include date, time and company.
2. Create an authorization if required: short, dated, name of the authorized person.
3. Document key handover: prepare a handover protocol or receipt.
4. Take photos before and after the work and store them.
5. Check the invoice and, if necessary, raise written objections with a deadline.
6. In case of dispute: collect evidence and consider legal advice or court action.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] §§ 535–580a BGB (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• [3] Information on local courts and jurisdiction (justiz.de)

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Information on local courts and jurisdiction (justiz.de)