Tenant Rights: Video Surveillance in Dorms 2025 Germany

As a tenant in Germany you are often between the need for security and the protection of your privacy. This section explains clearly when landlords may use video surveillance in dorms, what rights you have as a tenant and what steps you can take if you feel monitored. We describe practical measures such as documenting observations, formal objections and possible lawsuits at the local court. We also show which legal foundations are relevant and where to find official forms and court information. The goal is to give you clear action steps so you can enforce your rights while avoiding unnecessary conflict.

Rights and limits of video surveillance

Landlords may monitor public areas such as entrances or stairwells only under strict conditions. Surveillance that records entrances permanently and makes individual residents identifiable interferes with the right to personality. The legal basis for tenancy is found in the Civil Code (BGB)^[1], which regulates landlord and tenant duties, and in procedural rules for disputes under the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2].

When is surveillance permitted?

• Surveillance is only lawful for a concrete, legitimate security interest if less intrusive measures are excluded.
• Privacy must not be violated; living areas and clear resting spaces are generally off-limits.
• Deadlines (deadline) for deleting recordings must be observed and the purpose of storage is time-limited.
• Documentation and transparent notices about surveillance must be available.

What you can do as a tenant

If you feel impaired by cameras, document date, time and place as well as possible effects. Request from the landlord in writing the purpose, retention periods and the responsible body and, if necessary, announce a formal objection. If no agreement is possible, you can sue to enforce your rights at the local court (Amtsgericht)^[2].

Forms and practical templates

There are no uniform nationwide templates covering all cases. However, use written demands and objections sent by registered mail with return receipt so delivery and date can be proven. For court proceedings the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies^[2], and jurisdiction for tenancy disputes is usually the local court in first instance.

FAQ

Can the landlord install a stairwell camera without tenants' consent?

Not automatically; the landlord must prove a legitimate interest and balance tenants' rights, otherwise the camera is unlawful.

Who decides in disputes about surveillance?

Initially the local court; depending on the legal question higher courts are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice for precedents^[3].

How long may recordings be stored?

Only as long as necessary for the purpose. Blanket long-term storage is generally unlawful.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: date, time, photos and descriptions (evidence).
2. Request information in writing: purpose, retention period and who has access (notice).
3. Seek advice: consult a tenants' association or legal counsel.
4. Consider legal action: file a claim at the local court (court).

Key Takeaways

• Surveillance is permitted only under narrow conditions.
• Documentation and written communication strengthen your case.
• In disputes the local court and ZPO provide the legal route.

Help and Support / Resources

• BMJ - Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Laws in the Internet (official texts)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Official Website

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Official Website