Tradesperson Access Lawful: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may often wonder when and how to allow tradespeople into your flat for repairs or maintenance. This practical guide explains in plain language the rights and duties of tenants and landlords, how to protect your privacy and which deadlines and formalities to observe. You will learn how to draft an access request legally, which official forms and documents are relevant, and how to document evidence such as photos or written confirmations. Practical steps also show when a court can be involved and which local courts are competent in tenancy disputes.

When may tradespeople enter the flat?

In general: the landlord may not enter the flat without reason and without notice. The obligation to tolerate necessary repairs is regulated in tenancy law and typically creates a right of access for the landlord or their agents^[1]. Entry is usually permitted in cases of immediate danger (e.g., burst pipe) or agreed appointments.

• Entry in case of immediate danger (water damage, gas leak) is permitted immediately.
• For planned work, the landlord must give timely notice and coordinate appointments with you.
• Modernization works often require longer notice periods and information obligations.

How to draft a legally secure access request

A formal request should include date, reason, expected duration and the tradesperson's name. Refer to your right to privacy and, if necessary, request written confirmation of the work. Official forms for filing lawsuits or contacting authorities are available from judicial services and legal databases^[3].

• Write a short written request for appointment scheduling including date and a time window.
• Specify a response deadline if needed (e.g., within 7 days).
• Request presentation of ID or a power of attorney by the tradesperson on arrival.

Documentation and evidence

Keep all messages, photos and appointments. Note times, names and specific defects. Such records are important if there is later a rent reduction or a legal dispute.

• Photos before and after the repair show the condition and scope of the work.
• Save written requests, e-mails and texts as evidence.
• If applicable, note costs or claims if the landlord does not cover the works.

Court steps and jurisdiction

If a landlord unlawfully infringes your rights or unjustifiably demands access, you can consider legal action. Tenancy disputes such as termination, eviction or rent reduction are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht) in the first instance; procedural rules are governed by the ZPO^[2].

• Local court (Amtsgericht): first instance for most tenancy disputes.
• Seek advice before filing a claim, for example from advisory services or a tenant association.
• Submit collected evidence and a precise statement of facts.

FAQ

Do I have to allow tradespeople access as a tenant?

You generally must tolerate necessary repairs, but entry must be properly announced and justified.

How much notice must the landlord give?

For non-urgent work the landlord should notify you in good time; modernizations often require longer notice and information obligations.

What can I do if my privacy is violated?

Request written cessation, document incidents and consider legal action if violations persist.

How-To

1. Step 1: Request a written appointment confirmation from the landlord.
2. Step 2: Set a reasonable response deadline and confirm the appointment in writing.
3. Step 3: Document arrival time, names and take photos.
4. Step 4: In case of conflict: seek legal advice and consider filing a claim at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Judicial service forms on justiz.de

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Justiz.de: Service and court forms