Tenant Rights for Viewings in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you have rights when it comes to viewings and landlord entry. This article explains in plain terms how to coordinate viewings, protect your privacy and respond legally when appointments are scheduled or unexpected access is requested. It outlines relevant deadlines, what information a landlord must provide, how to politely decline or reschedule, and which pieces of evidence matter in a dispute. I also name official forms and competent courts and give practical steps for documentation and communication. The aim is to give tenants clear options and templates so you can avoid conflicts or be prepared if legal action becomes necessary.

What landlords may do — Entry rights

Landlords may enter the rented premises only under certain conditions. The basic duties and rights are regulated in the Civil Code and determine when access can be requested and what notices are required^[1].

• The landlord must give adequate notice of appointments (notice).
• A legitimate reason is required; access without cause is not permitted (entry).
• Emergencies (e.g., burst pipe) allow immediate access (safety).
• Unannounced access generally does not justify an eviction and can be challenged (court).
• Photos or videos are only permitted with consent; observe data protection (record).

Coordinating viewings

Agree appointments clearly and in writing: propose several time slots, give limited time windows, and set a concrete time. Politeness helps avoid disputes; insist on written confirmation if you need to protect your rights.

• Send proposals with multiple options (calendar).
• Observe reasonable times and deadlines (within).
• Decline large groups or surprise visits in writing and propose alternatives (notice).
• Request a contact person and telephone number for questions (contact).

Practical steps & forms

If you are unsure or want to document a refusal, use standard letters and refer to your rights. Key official regulations and procedural rules are in the BGB and the ZPO^[1][2]. Templates and official guidance for termination and court procedures are provided by government sources^[3].

• Use a termination letter template from the Federal Ministry of Justice if you plan to terminate; include name, date, tenancy data, and the correct notice period (form).
• For defect notifications or refusal of a viewing: include date, reason, attach photos, and ask for confirmation (document).
• For escalation: consider filing suit at the local court and check ZPO rules on procedure (court).

Documentation and evidence

Collect evidence: emails, letters, photos, witness names and logs. Note date, time, people involved and content of conversations. This documentation helps in negotiations or court.

• Save all appointment requests and confirmations (record).
• Take dated photos of defects or unauthorized entry (record).
• Keep correspondence chronologically and send copies to third parties if needed (notice).

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the landlord have to announce viewings?

Yes. Appointments must be announced within a reasonable time; details depend on the specific case and tenancy rules.^[1]

Can I refuse a viewing?

You may refuse unreasonable times or ask to reschedule; however, if the landlord has a legitimate reason and has given proper notice, they may insist on access.

What to do in case of unauthorized access?

Document the incident, take photos, get witnesses, and consider a written cease-and-desist or legal action.

How-To

1. Step 1: Request the appointment in writing and offer multiple times (notice).
2. Step 2: Ask for confirmation and note the agreed time (calendar).
3. Step 3: Collect evidence if there is a dispute (record).
4. Step 4: Seek legal advice and consider court action at the local court if necessary (court).

Key Takeaways

• Landlords generally need a valid reason and notice for access.
• Keep written records of all communications and appointments.
• Consult official law texts and templates for formal steps.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB) — Legal texts and paragraphs
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Case law and decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) — Guidance and templates

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ) — Official information and templates
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Decisions and press releases