Tenants: Ramp & Door Widening in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, the need for barrier-free modifications such as a ramp or door widening in an older building can arise suddenly. Many tenants wonder who pays the costs, which permits are required, and how to apply for financial support. This article clearly explains your rights as a tenant, when the landlord is obligated to act, what funding and grant options exist, and which authorities and forms you should contact. You will receive practical action steps, deadline-aware advice and examples so you can plan and finance modifications safely. The tips are tailored to German regulations and courts and name relevant statutory provisions and courts for orientation. Read on for concrete template wordings and guidance on meeting deadlines and enforcing your claims.

Who pays the costs?

Fundamentally, a distinction must be made between necessary repairs/maintenance and individual adaptations. Under the German Civil Code (BGB), the landlord is obligated to maintain the rental property; for structural adaptations in favor of an individual tenant, special rules apply and often an agreement between tenant and landlord is required^[1].

Permits and building law requirements

Building regulations and monument protection may affect the procedure. Small door widenings or a removable ramp usually do not require a building permit, but for load-bearing changes or protected facades you must contact the competent building authority in advance.

Financing options for tenants

• Grants: Municipal funding programs or integration offices often offer grants for barrier-free conversions.
• Health insurance/social benefits: If medically necessary, payers may partially cover costs.
• KfW/public loans: Promotional loans for housing modernization may be available (check local eligibility).
• Application to social welfare office: For low income, the social office may cover costs; consult your local district office.

Practical: Step by step

1. Step 1: Send a written request to the landlord with justification, photos and cost estimates.
2. Step 2: Contact the social or integration office in your city to check funding options.
3. Step 3: Collect medical certificates or proof of necessity.
4. Step 4: Check deadlines for funding applications and building permits and submit documents on time.
5. Step 5: In case of dispute: collect written documentation and, if necessary, inform the local court as the first instance^[2].

What the rental contract says

Read your rental contract for clauses on structural changes or restoration obligations. Some contracts allow minor adaptations with landlord consent, others require restoration on moving out or securities.

Templates: Sample formulations

• "I hereby request permission to install a mobile ramp at the entrance; please review cost coverage."
• "I request consent to widen the door by X cm; costs and restoration will be regulated as follows: ..."

Common problems and how to respond

• Landlord refuses: argue with medical necessity and funding possibilities.
• Funding application rejected: file an objection and request a reasoned justification.

FAQ

Who pays for the ramp in an old building?

It depends: the landlord must maintain the rented property, but individual adaptations are often arranged between tenant and landlord or via funding.

Do I need a building permit?

Small, non-load-bearing measures may be permit-free; monument-protected buildings or load-bearing interventions require approval.

Which forms do I need?

Depending on funding: housing benefit/social assistance forms at the social office, applications at the integration office, or municipal funding applications; ask your city administration.

How-To

1. Inform the landlord in writing and attach cost estimates.
2. Make an appointment at the social or integration office and check funding options.
3. Complete and submit the funding application with certificates and cost estimates.
4. Observe deadlines and keep confirmations of receipt.
5. If rejected: file an objection or seek tenant association/court advice.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJV)
• Laws in the Internet (BGB & legal bases)
• Federal Government: Housing and Building Information

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Bundesministerium der Justiz und für Verbraucherschutz