Tenant Rights: Wayfinding & Contrast Docs in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the task of documenting defects in wayfinding or insufficient contrasts, for example regarding accessibility, corridors or signage. This text explains in clear language which pieces of evidence are useful, how to set deadlines and which official steps are possible. It is aimed at tenants without legal expertise and shows how photos, date entries, witnesses and written notices should be compiled. We also name the competent authorities and typical forms so you can enforce your rights under the BGB in Germany.

What to document?

Concrete and structured documentation helps to prove defects in wayfinding systems or inadequate contrast design. Above all, collect statements, photos and written contacts.

• evidence / Proof: Photos with perspectives, a scale (e.g. ruler) and date so visibility and contrast are measurable.
• Deadline / within: Note date and time of each observation and set a written deadline to the landlord.
• repair / Repair: Describe exactly where wayfinding systems are missing or contrasts are insufficient and explain why that restricts use.
• notice / Notice: Send a defect notice by email and additionally by registered mail or handover with receipt confirmation.
• contact / Contact: List witnesses with phone numbers and mark potential hazard spots on site.

Practical steps for documentation

Follow a clear sequence: collect evidence, inform the landlord, set a deadline, and if necessary prepare legal action. Always keep copies.

1. notice / Write a defect notice: Describe defect, location, date and deadline (e.g. 14 days) and demand remedy.
2. evidence / Attach evidence: Include numbered photos, short videos and witness information and secure metadata.
3. Deadline / Set a deadline: Give a clear time frame for remediation and announce consequences (rent reduction, deadline under BGB).
4. court / Inform the local court: If there is no response, prepare a claim and possibly file an action at the local court.
5. contact / Use advice: Seek legal help or advisory services early to check deadlines and wording.

FAQ

Who is responsible for wayfinding and contrasts?

Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintenance and traffic safety of the residential building; obligations from the BGB apply for structural defects.^[1]

What deadlines apply if the landlord does not respond?

Set a reasonable deadline (commonly 14 days). If the landlord does not react, you can take further steps after the deadline, such as rent reduction or filing a claim according to the ZPO.^[2]

Where do I file a lawsuit?

Claims related to rental defects are filed at your competent local court; in appeals, the case can proceed to the higher regional court or the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3]

How to

1. notice / Step 1: Draft a written defect notice with date, specific description and a deadline for remedy.
2. evidence / Step 2: Collect photos, videos and witness statements; number files and note times.
3. Deadline / Step 3: Send the notice by registered mail or hand it over with receipt confirmation.
4. court / Step 4: If necessary, file the claim at the local court and present your documentation.

Help and Support

• Contact / Contact: Gesetze im Internet – BGB §535
• Contact / Contact: Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• Contact / Contact: Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §535
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
4. [4] Informationen zu Gerichten und Zuständigkeiten