Tenants: Stairlift in WEG Buildings – Germany

Rights and Obligations of Tenants and the WEG

Many questions about installing a stairlift revolve around consent, costs and deadlines. As a tenant under the German Civil Code you have duties of consideration, but also rights to changes of use and reasonable accessibility^[1]. In WEG buildings the Condominium Act regulates the decision-making powers of the owners' association; structural changes to common property usually require a WEG resolution^[2]. For disputes the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure apply, which structure resolutions and lawsuits^[3].

Practical Steps Before the Application

Prepare documents and quotes, speak early with the landlord and inform the property management. A clear cost breakdown helps avoid conflicts. Explain whether the stairlift will be fixed or removable.

• Submit a written application (form) to the landlord and the WEG and note the dispatch date
• Attach quotes, photos and technical specifications (photo) as annexes
• Present a cost estimate and a proposal for cost allocation (cost)
• Include technical inspection and maintenance plans (maintenance) from a specialist company

What the WEG Can Decide

The WEG decides on structural changes to common property. Some measures can be deemed permissible if they are reversible or do not materially impair other owners. In meetings there should be a concrete resolution on type, scope and costs; record the outcome in writing.

If the WEG Refuses

In case of refusal the following options are possible: renegotiation with adjustments, an application to the court to replace consent, or in some cases cost coverage by funding sources for accessibility. Legal steps should be well documented and scheduled, as deadlines and procedural requirements apply^[3].

FAQ

Can I as a tenant install a stairlift without the WEG's consent?

No, measures affecting common property usually require consent or a WEG resolution; check whether the installation can be classified as a permissible special use.

Who pays for the stairlift?

That is usually a matter of negotiation between tenant, landlord and WEG; grants from social service bodies may be possible.

Which court is competent in disputes?

For tenancy and condominium disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is generally competent; higher instances are the regional court (Landgericht) and possibly the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

How-To

1. Gather documents: photos, technical descriptions and cost estimates (photo)
2. Send a written application (form) to landlord and WEG and obtain confirmation of receipt
3. Seek a WEG resolution by attending the owners' meeting or requesting a vote (approved)
4. If refused, obtain legal advice and prepare a claim at the local court (court)

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
• [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnungseigentumsgesetz (WEG)
• [3] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnungseigentumsgesetz (WEG)
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)