Tenants: Stairwell Decoration Rights in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know how you may attach stairwell decorations without risking conflicts with neighbors or the landlord. Small plants, string lights or seasonal decorations may seem harmless but can affect community rules, house regulations and safety requirements. This guide explains in plain language which rules apply to stairwell decoration, when you need consent and how to avoid disputes. I show practical steps: documentation, communication strategies with the landlord, safe attachment and possible legal steps in case of disagreements. This helps tenants keep their living quality and legal security in Germany in view.

Legal basis

Landlord duties and tenant rights are regulated in the German Civil Code (BGB), especially concerning maintenance and use of the rented property.^[1] In case of dispute, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides in the first instance; appeals can reach the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2]

Allowed and problematic decorations

Whether something is allowed depends on duration, safety and the house rules. Check in advance whether decoration affects escape routes, fire safety or communal rights.

• Small plants on the landing are usually allowed as long as escape routes remain clear.
• String lights are allowed if they are securely fastened and not a fire hazard.
• Fire and safety regulations must not be violated.
• Permanently attached structures or blockages often require the landlord's or owners' association's consent.

Practical steps for tenants

Proactive measures and actions in a dispute include documenting, communicating, attaching safely and reviewing legal steps if necessary. Official templates and sample forms are available from government sources.^[3]

• Document photos, dates and conversations as evidence.
• Obtain written consent or use model forms such as the BMJ sample termination/notice letter.^[3]
• Follow safety requirements: keep distance from steps and ensure handrails remain accessible.
• In serious disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) may be involved.^[2]

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's permission to hang string lights in the stairwell?

Usually yes if the decoration is permanent or safety-relevant; for purely decorative, temporary items an informal agreement often suffices.

Can the house rules prohibit stairwell decoration?

Yes, valid house rules can include restrictions as long as they do not conflict with mandatory law.[1]

Where do I turn in a legal dispute?

Rental disputes are typically heard first at the local court (Amtsgericht); the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) may give precedent-setting rulings.[2]

How-To

1. Photograph the decoration and note the date and location.
2. Talk to the landlord and ask for written consent.
3. Check fire safety and remove anything that blocks escape routes.
4. If necessary, submit evidence to the local court or seek legal advice.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation protects your rights in disputes.
• Written consents serve as clear proof.
• Safety comes first: respect fire rules and escape routes.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — decisions and information
• Federal Ministry of Justice — forms and information

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de