Tenants in Germany: Financing Accessible Bathroom
Many tenants in Germany face the question of how to finance an accessible bathroom in an older building without endangering the tenancy. This guide explains in plain terms what rights tenants have, which grants and loans are possible, and how to negotiate with the landlord. Typical funding routes such as grants from the care insurance under SGB XI, KfW programs for age-appropriate remodeling, and practical mixed financing options are presented. You will also learn which forms are relevant, when an application makes sense, and how to collect documents and cost estimates in a legally secure way. The goal is to give you, as a tenant in Germany, clear, actionable steps so that barrier-reducing renovations become plannable and financeable.
Rights, Obligations and Legal Basis
As a tenant you are protected by the Civil Code; important provisions can be found in §§ 535–580a BGB, for example regarding maintenance obligations and modernization.[1] Before alterations you should check whether the measure counts as modernization or necessary repair, because that affects consent and cost issues. Request written information and keep all offers and emails.
Funding Options
- Grant via the care insurance (SGB XI §40): Apply for home environment improvement measures through your care fund if care needs exist; the fund often supports adjustments that maintain independence.[2]
- KfW programs "Age-appropriate Remodeling": Loan or investment grant for barrier-reducing measures, application usually via the house bank before work begins.
- Obtain written landlord consent: Draft a short letter describing the measures, cost estimates and schedule; avoid oral agreements.
- Documentation and collecting offers: Obtain at least two cost estimates, photograph the current condition and note dates and names of contractors.
If the landlord objects to a necessary adaptation, check the legal situation before carrying out work on your own; in some cases the tenant must perform changes at their own expense and restore the original state. Seek advice or verify funding requirements in writing beforehand.
Practical Steps for Financing and Application
Plan the order: first cost estimates, then funding applications (care fund/KfW) and finally landlord consent. Start applications early because approvals take time. In disputes over consent or costs, civil proceedings at the local court (Amtsgericht) may be necessary; the procedure follows the Code of Civil Procedure.[3]
FAQ
- Who pays the costs for an accessible bathroom in an older building?
- In principle the landlord is responsible for maintenance; for modernizations the landlord can pass on costs, while necessary measures or grants are often partly covered by third parties such as the care insurance or funding banks.
- Can I carry out alterations on my own as a tenant?
- Only with written consent from the landlord; without consent you may be required to restore the original condition and pay damages. For urgent adaptations seek legal advice first.
- Which documents do I need for funding applications?
- At minimum two cost estimates, medical or relevant proof of care need (for SGB XI), photos of the current condition and a description of the planned measures.
How-To
- Check eligibility and collect two cost estimates from contractors.
- Contact your care insurance early if care needs exist and inquire about benefits under SGB XI §40.
- Submit funding applications (e.g. KfW) via the house bank before starting work and include required documents.
- Obtain written landlord consent and document all agreements.
- Carry out the work according to the offer and keep all invoices for accounting and proof.
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
- KfW – Programs for age-appropriate remodeling (kfw.de)
- Federal Court of Justice – Rental law decisions
