Tenants: Allow Satellite Dish in Germany 2025
Rights and Basics
As a tenant in Germany you have certain rights to use your dwelling, while tenancy law in the BGB also governs obligations of landlords and tenants [1]. Whether a satellite dish on a balcony or facade is permitted depends on ownership, house rules and building regulations. Often the question is whether installation alters the building fabric or significantly affects other tenants.
Keep all dated photos and correspondence.
How tenants should proceed
The following steps help you assert your rights clearly and legally.
- Set a deadline: Ask the landlord in writing to decide within 14 days.
- Written request: Formally ask for consent and attach photos and measurements.
- Documentation: Collect photos, emails and witness statements as evidence.
- Installation & liability: Clarify in advance who is liable for damages and which installation methods are possible.
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
When a landlord may refuse
A landlord may lawfully refuse if the dish would damage the building structure, substantially disturb other tenants, or there are specific safety or monument protection reasons. In disputed cases the local court (Amtsgericht) often decides first [2].
Respond in writing and within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- May I install a satellite dish without permission?
- Generally you need the landlord's consent if installation causes structural changes or affects common property.
- What can I do if the landlord refuses?
- You should request consent in writing, set a deadline, collect evidence and consider legal action at the local court.
- What deadlines apply?
- There is no uniform statutory deadline for consent; it is common to give the landlord 14 days to respond before planning further steps.
How-To
- Draft a written consent request with photos, measurements and the proposed installation spot.
- Set a clear deadline (e.g. 14 days) for the landlord's reply.
- Gather all evidence: photos, emails, witnesses, cost estimates.
- If the landlord unjustly refuses, file a claim at the competent local court and attach your documentation.
Help and Support / Resources
- Gesetze im Internet: BGB
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
