Tenants: Retrofit Elevator 2025 in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face elevator retrofit issues in 2025: older buildings often lack accessible entrances and residents need help with installation or scheduling. As a tenant you should know which documents to gather, which deadlines apply and how to formally approach the landlord. This article explains in plain terms which written proofs, photos and cost estimates are required, which authority pages and courts may become relevant and how to agree a binding schedule. The language is simple so you can take concrete steps without legal expertise, avoid risks and protect your rights in daily life. I list deadlines, sample documents and practical examples so you can act right away.

Which documents you need

For a successful agreement on retrofit you should first collect all relevant documents. This helps to state demands clearly and set deadlines.

• Written request or defect notice to the landlord stating the concrete wish for elevator installation and suggesting dates.
• Photos of the stairwell, measurements and a simple site plan to document current accessibility.
• Cost estimates from at least two specialist companies to demonstrate effort and costs.
• Medical certificate or severe disability ID if accessibility is required for medical reasons.
• Previous correspondence, appointments and a list with desired deadline dates for implementation.

Deadlines and agreement with the landlord

In your written request set a reasonable deadline for a response — for example 14 to 30 days — and explain why the retrofit is necessary. Refer factually to your housing needs and record responses and appointments in writing. If the landlord does not respond or refuses, the next steps under tenancy law may include setting a deadline, mediation via a conciliation body or court action at the local court.^[1][2]

Practical procedure

Explain in your request whether you accept cost-sharing or alternative access options. Arrange an on-site meeting with the landlord or property management and note participants, date and discussed measures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I as a tenant demand the installation of an elevator?

You can submit a written request or defect notice; whether you have a claim depends on the individual case and tenancy law (BGB) as well as structural and economic feasibility.^[1]

Do I as a tenant have to pay for the elevator?

In principle the landlord bears the costs for structural measures, but cost agreements are possible; review every agreement in writing and request cost estimates.

Which authority or court is responsible in case of dispute?

Initially, local courts (tenancy courts) are usually responsible; higher decisions can be made by the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect documents: photos, measurements, medical certificates and two cost estimates.
2. Send a written request to the landlord: state facts, a deadline (e.g. 14–30 days) and suggest appointment dates.
3. Monitor deadlines: date written incoming messages and document missed deadlines.
4. Arrange an on-site meeting: record participants, date and results in writing.
5. If conflicts arise: consider mediation or filing suit at the local court; apply for legal aid if necessary.

Key Takeaways

• Put requests and agreements in writing to protect your rights.
• Set clear deadlines and document every response.
• Gather evidence: photos, cost estimates and medical proof.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO) – official law texts
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – information on decisions
• Justice portal – guidance on courts and forms

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Official website