Tenants: Ramp & Door Widening in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you often need information when you want an accessible solution such as a ramp or door widening. This practical guide explains clearly which funding options are available, how to submit the application, why the landlord may need to agree and what rights you have as a tenant. I show step by step which official forms and proofs are necessary, how to negotiate cost coverage and when an application to the authority or to the social benefits provider is sensible. The notes are based on federal legal provisions and aim to help you implement accessibility measures in your home in a legally secure and pragmatic way. I also explain which authorities are responsible and how to meet deadlines.

What is possible?

Many accessibility modifications are eligible for funding. Relevant legal bases are tenancy law in the BGB ^[1] and funding rules such as home environment improvement measures under SGB XI ^[2].

Which funding options exist?

• KfW funding programs (grants and loans).
• Care fund (Pflegekasse): home environment improvement measures (e.g. up to €4,000) for people in need of care.
• Social welfare office / integration assistance: grants for people with disabilities.

Forms and proofs

You need various forms and proofs, for example medical reports, cost estimates and an application to the responsible office. Examples:

• Application to the care fund: "Application for home environment improvement measures" (medical report, cost estimate).
• KfW application: check program requirements and submit proofs.
• Documents: photos, records, tenancy agreement as proof of the housing situation.

Rights vis-à-vis the landlord

Structural changes usually require the landlord's consent; this follows from the duties and rights in the tenancy agreement and the BGB ^[1]. If the landlord refuses, consider negotiation, cost carriers or, if necessary, legal steps under the ZPO ^[4].

FAQ

Can I as a tenant modify without the landlord's permission?

As a rule you need consent; in cases of medical necessity there are special rules and funding may help.

Who pays for the ramp or door adjustment?

Combinations are often possible: care fund, social welfare office or KfW; the exact requirements determine cost coverage.

What proofs do I need for the application?

Medical reports, cost estimates from tradespeople, photos of the current situation and the tenancy agreement are common.

How-To

1. Collect proofs: medical report, photos, cost estimates.
2. Submit the form (submit application) to the care fund or the social welfare office.
3. Clarify costs and payment methods (payment) with the funding agency and the landlord.
4. In case of dispute: discuss legal steps and contact the local court (court) for tenancy law.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• [2] SGB XI §40 home environment improvement measures — Gesetze im Internet
• [3] KfW Bankengruppe — funding information
• [4] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] SGB XI §40 — home environment improvement measures — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] KfW Bankengruppe — program and funding information
4. [4] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — court proceedings — Gesetze im Internet