Tenants: Stairlift with Funding in Germany
As a tenant in Germany you may be eligible for funding for a stairlift, but planning requires specific steps: clarify the landlord's consent, check grants and submit formal applications. This guide explains in practical terms which authorities provide funding, which forms and deadlines you must observe and how tenancy law applies. The language remains accessible for tenants without legal background; we cite relevant sections of the BGB, show examples of applications and provide a step-by-step guide to submitting applications. At the end you will find an FAQ, a short how-to and official contact points in Germany. We also explain when costs can be borne by the landlord and how to prepare an objection or lawsuit at the local court. Additionally, find notes on KfW programs and the care insurance as possible payers.
Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords
Generally, the German Civil Code regulates the duties of landlords and tenants regarding the maintenance of the rented property. For structural changes like a stairlift, landlord consent is often required; in certain cases tenants can insist on accessibility or use funding, but costs are not automatically borne by the landlord.[1]
Funding Sources and Payers
Key funding sources for stairlifts are state programs, care insurance and municipal help. Always check eligibility criteria and whether co-payments or technical requirements apply.
- KfW grants (payment): Programs for age-appropriate conversion can provide grants or low-interest loans; check the current KfW conditions.[2]
- Care insurance (payment): With verified care needs, the care insurance may pay subsidies for technical aids or conversion measures under certain conditions.
- Municipal/state grants (payment): Some federal states and municipalities offer additional programs or grants; inquire at the responsible office.
Applications, Landlord Consent, Forms
Most grants require technical evidence, cost estimates and often the landlord's consent. Collect documents systematically: offers, medical certificates, cost estimates and correspondence with the landlord.
- Obtain written consent (form): Ask the landlord in writing for permission to install the stairlift and record any conditions or deadlines.
- Complete the funding application (form): Submit all required attachments as specified by the funding agency.
- Collect documentation and receipts (document): Keep invoices, emails and photos to answer any later queries.
Practical Implementation Tips
Contact funding agencies early and discuss technical questions with qualified contractors. Clarify whether installation must be reversible and how it affects the lease and additional costs. In disputes, written requests and deadlines are important.
FAQ
- Do I need the landlord's consent for a stairlift as a tenant?
- Usually yes: Structural modifications typically require the landlord's consent. Under certain circumstances tenants may use funding or insist on accessibility, but communication with the landlord remains important.
- Who pays for a stairlift — tenant or landlord?
- Costs vary by case: grants, care insurance or personal contributions are possible; the landlord is not automatically responsible for all costs.
- Which deadlines and forms are important?
- Observe application deadlines of funding agencies, submit complete attachments and note possible objection deadlines in case of rejection.
How-To
- Get informed (deadline): Check funding programs and deadlines before signing contracts.
- Obtain consent (form): Request landlord consent in writing and document the response.
- Submit application (payment): File the funding application with offers, certificates and cost estimates.
- Installation and billing (document): Have qualified contractors perform the installation and submit invoices for reimbursement.
Help and Support / Resources
- Laws: German Civil Code (BGB) — full text
- KfW: Age-appropriate conversion program
- Federal Ministry of Health: Care and care insurance information
