Tenants: Accessible Doorbell with Funding in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you have a right to reasonable accessibility in your home and, in certain cases, can request or install an accessible doorbell. Many funding programs support technical aids or small modifications, especially in cities with municipal programs. Landlord approval is usually required; without it, contractual breaches may occur. This article explains in plain language which laws apply, which funding bodies are relevant, which official forms you may need and how to write a clear request. You will also learn when a court (local court/Amtsgericht) is competent and which steps help avoid disputes or resolve them legally. Examples and template texts assist with drafting.

What the law says

Under tenancy law in the BGB, landlords are obliged to maintain the rental property; structural changes by tenants generally require consent. In some cases tenants can demand a modification if it is necessary for equal use; however, agreement with the landlord is often central.^[1]

Funding and official forms

Funding may come from different sources: benefits from the care insurance under SGB XI can support technical aids (e.g., doorbell systems in case of care needs), municipal funding programs or housing promotion under the WoFG can provide grants or loans. In your application, state exactly what help you need and attach cost estimates.^[2][3]

Key official forms and examples:

• Application for care insurance benefits (e.g., application under SGB XI §40) — use your care insurer's form and describe example: "Installation of an audible/visual doorbell due to mobility limitations".
• Application under housing promotion (WoFG) — for municipal programs often the city form; example: "Funding application for barrier-free retrofitting at the entrance".

Practical negotiation tips with the landlord

Write your request, attach a short technical plan and cost estimates, and note funding possibilities that reduce costs. Offer compromises such as a reversible installation or a reinstatement clause on moving out. Emphasize when the measure supports participation or health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I as a tenant install an accessible doorbell myself?

Only with landlord consent; in exceptional cases there may be a right if the measure is necessary for participation. Use written form and document everything.^[1]

Which funding sources are possible?

Care insurance benefits (SGB XI §40), municipal funding programs and housing promotion (WoFG) are possible sources; check responsibilities and application requirements in advance.^[2][3]

What if the landlord refuses?

Document the refusal, check options for appeal and obtain legal advice; for unclear legal questions the local court (Amtsgericht) may be competent.

How-To

1. Documentation: Collect photos, dates, medical certificates and cost estimates as evidence.
2. Check funding: Research care insurance, municipal programs and housing promotion; note deadlines and forms.
3. Request to landlord: Write a factual request attaching offers and funding notes.
4. If needed: Consider legal steps and inform the local court; gather all documents for potential resolution.

Key Takeaways

• Landlord approval is usually required.
• Documentation and cost estimates improve funding chances.
• Funding may come from care insurance, municipalities or housing promotion.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB – Civil Code (Gesetze im Internet)
• SGB XI – Care benefits (Gesetze im Internet)
• WoFG – Housing Promotion Act (Gesetze im Internet)

1. [1] BGB §535 – Landlord obligations (Gesetze im Internet)
2. [2] SGB XI §40 – Additional care insurance benefits (Gesetze im Internet)
3. [3] Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) – Text (Gesetze im Internet)
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice – Civil procedure information