Tenants: Approving Stairlift in Germany 2025

Many tenants in Germany need a stairlift to secure daily life and mobility. This guide explains in plain language when tenants need the landlord's approval, what legal bases apply and how to practically prepare subsidy and care insurance applications. Read which deadlines and proofs are important, what role the local court (Amtsgericht) plays in disputes and which forms or letters you should have ready. The goal is a clear, practical process so that as a tenant you know your rights and can plan concrete steps to obtain approval or funding in 2025.

When do tenants need approval?

In principle: structural alterations to the rental property, which can include a stairlift, usually require the landlord's consent. Tenancy obligations and rights are found in the German Civil Code (BGB), especially regarding maintenance and changes to the rental agreement^[1]. Without explicit consent tenants risk claims or demands to restore the original condition.

Who pays and what funding exists?

There are several financing routes: own funds, grants from the care insurance according to §40 SGB XI for home-adaptation measures, and possibly municipal aids. Check eligibility and deadlines carefully and submit applications before work begins^[2].

• First check whether the care insurance provides a grant.
• Enquire with the municipality about grants or low-interest loans.
• Obtain comparable offers from certified providers and present cost estimates.

Important: Do not start work before approval or funding decisions are in place. Otherwise you risk losing grants or facing reinstatement obligations.

Practical documents and evidence

Prepare these documents before you contact the landlord or submit an application:

• Photos of the installation situation and staircase measurements.
• Exact cost estimates from at least two providers.
• Written request or application to the landlord with a deadline.
• Proof of care level or medical certificates if applying for care insurance funding.

Rights, deadlines and court resolution

If the landlord refuses, check the reasons in writing and set a reasonable deadline for a response. In unclear legal situations, resolution before the local court (Amtsgericht) may be necessary; tenancy disputes often start at Amtsgerichte, with higher instances following on appeal or revision^[3].

FAQ

Do I always need the landlord's consent for a stairlift?

Yes, structural changes generally require the landlord's consent; exceptions only apply in cases of urgent medical necessity and immediate need.

Can the care insurance pay a grant?

Under certain conditions, the care insurance provides grants for home-adaptation measures under §40 SGB XI; check eligibility and application requirements.

What happens in a dispute with the landlord?

In case of dispute, tenants can first send a written request with a deadline and then, if necessary, seek clarification at the local court; legal advice is recommended.

How-To

1. Step 1: Collect documents: photos, cost estimates, medical evidence.
2. Step 2: Request written consent from the landlord and set a clear deadline.
3. Step 3: Submit funding applications to the care insurance (referencing §40 SGB XI) and attach cost estimates.
4. Step 4: After positive approval arrange dates with the provider and document the work steps.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
• SGB XI §40 - Home adaptation measures
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Information and decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Sozialgesetzbuch XI (SGB XI) §40
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) - Jurisdiction and decisions