Tenants in Germany: Request Ramp & Door Widening

Many tenants in Germany need ramps or door widening to reduce barriers in older buildings. This article explains in plain language the rights and obligations tenants have, how to document the need, and which steps are usually necessary for landlords to agree or for courts to decide. We name relevant laws, show common mistakes and provide a step-by-step guide to formal requests as well as practical templates and administrative routes. The advice is practical and aimed at tenants without legal expertise so you can communicate confidently with landlords, contractors and authorities.

What tenants should consider

Before structural changes such as a ramp or door widening, the landlord's consent is generally required. Relevant regulations can be found in tenancy law, in particular the Civil Code (BGB).^[1] Typical problems include missing written consent, incomplete documentation of need, and exceeding agreed terms of use by the tenant.

Common mistakes

• Not requesting permission in writing and relying only on verbal agreements.
• Failing to document need with medical certificates or expert reports.
• Starting construction without coordination when the measure requires approval.
• Unclear cost allocation: no agreement on who installs or pays.

Keep a written record of every communication: date, content, names and agreements. This makes it easier to prove which arrangements were made later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for ramps or door widening?

As a rule, installation is a structural change that requires the landlord's consent. Cost allocation must be negotiated; in some cases social authorities or benefit providers contribute.

Can the landlord prohibit the measure?

No, the landlord may not refuse without objective reasons. If there is a dispute, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides.

Which documents do I need for the request?

Typically: medical certificate, photos of the situation, a sketch with measurements, a cost estimate from a contractor and a formal letter to the landlord.

How-To

1. Check your lease and document the need in writing with dates.
2. Collect medical certificates, photos of the situation and a cost estimate.
3. Propose concrete solutions to the landlord, including cost sharing and installation timeline.
4. If no agreement is reached, inform the local court or seek legal advice; civil procedure rules apply.^[2]

What matters for consent

The landlord can agree, impose conditions (e.g. removal on moving out) or ask for cost sharing. Record every consent in writing and agree on deadlines and responsibilities.

Important notes on courts and deadlines

For legal disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is normally the first instance for tenancy matters; appeals go to the regional court and, where precedent is relevant, to the Federal Court of Justice. Formal claims follow the Civil Procedure Code and often require specific forms and deadlines.^[3]

Key steps if refused

• Request a written reason for the refusal.
• Create a complete file with all documents and photos.
• Consider mediation or filing a claim at the local court.

Help and support

• [1] Justice Portal — information on courts and procedures
• [2] Civil Code (BGB) online
• [3] Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) online

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Justizportal — Hinweise zu Zuständigkeit der Amtsgerichte
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de