Tenants in Germany: Ramp & Door Widening 2025

Many tenants in Germany need support when it comes to accessibility such as ramps or door widenings. This guide explains clearly what rights tenants have, which applications can be submitted to landlords or authorities and which official forms are required. You will learn how to prepare an application, what deadlines apply and how a court or the local court is involved if an agreement is not possible. Examples show when modifications are the tenant's responsibility, when they fall to the landlord, and how cost coverage, building permits and funding options are checked. The aim is to guide you safely through the 2025 application process and provide practical steps for small and larger adaptations.

What tenants should know

Under German tenancy law, the tenant is entitled to a defect-free and usable apartment; necessary structural adjustments for accessibility can raise entitlement questions under Sections 535–580a BGB^[1]. If a landlord does not agree, a civil procedure up to the local court or higher instances may be required; proceedings follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2]. In dispute cases, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice shape the interpretation of landlord duties and cost allocation^[3].

Application, forms and steps

Before carrying out or applying for modifications, prepare a written request with photos, measurements and cost estimates. Contact the landlord formally, explain why the measure is necessary, and state possible cost coverage or funding options.

• Forms: Gather cost estimates, construction drawings and a short cover letter as the application.
• Contact: Arrange a meeting with the landlord and document phone calls in writing.
• Documentation: Take photos, notes and save all emails and responses.
• Deadlines: Wait for a written answer and note deadlines for objections or legal actions.
• Costs: Check funding opportunities and who bears which costs.

Who pays and when are permits required?

Whether the tenant or landlord pays depends on agreements, the necessity of the measure and the condition of the apartment. Minor adjustments that serve use may be carried out by the tenant in some cases; larger interventions often require landlord consent and possibly a building permit. When in doubt, ask the responsible building authority before making changes.

FAQ

Who pays for a ramp or door widening?

This may be paid by the landlord if the change belongs to the usual use under the lease or is an obligation to maintain; otherwise tenants and landlords negotiate cost sharing.

Can I as a tenant modify the apartment myself if I need accessibility measures?

Only with explicit landlord consent or if a court decision allows it; document every step in writing.

To which authority or court do I submit an application?

First to the landlord in writing; if necessary, to the local court for civil clarification under the rules of the ZPO.

How-To

1. Collect documents: photos, measurements, cost estimates and a short cover letter.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and explain the need and measure.
3. Set deadlines for a response and note important dates.
4. Consider legal action at the local court if no agreement is reached.
5. Check funding options and reimbursement before starting work.

Help and Support

• Civil Code (BGB) on the law portal
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) on the law portal
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decisions

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Entscheidungen