Tenants: Apply for Stairlift & Grants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you often face practical questions when a stairlift becomes necessary: Which documents does the administration need, which deadlines apply, and how do I correctly apply for grants? This guide explains step by step which forms and proofs are required, how to meet deadlines and which authorities are responsible. I describe concrete examples for grant applications, list official forms and show how to sensibly compile documents, photos and cost estimates. The goal is to give you as a tenant clear action steps so that your approval and funding application in Germany succeeds more quickly.

Which documents & deadlines apply?

In principle, tenancy law in the BGB governs the rights and duties of tenants regarding structural changes; procedural rules also apply for legal disputes.^[1]

Important forms and proofs

• Application form of the funding body or approval request to the landlord (form).
• Medical certificate or proof document verifying mobility impairment.
• Cost estimate from the supplier (cost estimate / payment) with detailed description of services.
• Consent declaration from the landlord or legal justification under § 554 BGB, if required.

Deadlines and timeline

Grant applications and approvals often have fixed deadlines: application deadlines of funding bodies, processing times and possible objection periods. Allow enough time for cost estimates, coordination with the landlord and the authority's decision.

• Submit the grant application within the respective deadline of the programmes (deadline).
• Inform the landlord about planned modifications in good time to avoid delays (by law).
• Respond quickly to objection or litigation deadlines to avoid losing rights (within days).

Authorities, courts and legal bases

Depending on the programme, different bodies are responsible for grants, such as KfW or municipal social offices; tenancy disputes are generally handled in the first instance by the local court (Amtsgericht). References to central legal sources help with orientation.^[1][3]

Which laws matter?

• Civil Code (BGB), especially §§ 535–580a on rent and maintenance.
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) for court procedures and eviction actions.
• Regulations on housing promotion and possible municipal programmes depending on the federal state (WoFG, municipal statutes).

FAQ

Can I have a stairlift installed as a tenant?

Yes, in principle tenants can request installation; landlord consent is often required or a legal justification may be necessary. Also check funding options and technical feasibility.

Who decides on grants?

Grants are awarded depending on the programme by institutions such as KfW or municipal authorities; check programme eligibility and submission deadlines.

What if the landlord does not agree?

Document your need, offer compromises (e.g. obligation to restore), and consider legal steps or advisory services.

How-To

1. Check eligibility and funding possibility, collect medical proofs and relevant documents.
2. Obtain at least one detailed cost estimate from the supplier and clarify technical questions.
3. Complete the funding bodys application form fully and attach all proofs (submit application).
4. Inform the landlord in writing about the planned installation and present the documents.
5. Wait for funding approval before placing binding orders to avoid repayments.
6. If rejected, check objection routes or legal action at the competent local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB (Legal basics)
• KfW: Programmes for accessibility modernisation
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO (Court procedures)

1. [1] Gesetze-im-Internet: BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] KfW: Information on funding programmes
3. [3] Gesetze-im-Internet: ZPO