Tradesperson Access: Tenant Rights in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you may face situations where a landlord or tradesperson needs access to your flat. This article plainly explains which documents, deadlines and proofs matter, how to record entries, and what rights and duties follow from tenancy law. You will get practical templates, tips for secure documentation and examples of how to prove appointments. I also describe which courts are competent if a dispute arises and which official legal references to consult. I list relevant sections of the BGB, forms and how to use photos, witnesses and logs. At the end you will find a step-by-step guide for secure documentation and official contact points.

Rights, Duties and Deadlines

Landlords generally have an interest in maintenance, but access must respect your privacy. Key rules in tenancy law are set out in the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1]. Procedural rules for court actions are in the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO)^[2]. If in doubt, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible for tenancy disputes^[3].

• Proof of identity (ID card or passport): have a copy ready and note it in the log.
• Written authorization from the landlord (form): shows that the tradesperson acts on behalf of the landlord.
• Appointment confirmation by email or SMS as proof of notification.
• Photos with timestamps of affected defects and conditions.

How to record entries securely

A good log contains date, exact time, names of attendees, reason for access and visible damage or measurements. Also state whether you received a written announcement and on what legal basis access occurred. Note who carried out which work and, if possible, obtain the tradesperson's signature.

Practical evidence tips:

• Log: record date, time, attendees, tasks and signatures.
• Photos: always save with date/time and use clear file names.
• Emails/SMS: keep announcements and confirmations as proof.
• Witnesses: note names and contact details if neighbors can corroborate.

When to object or bring a claim

If access was unauthorized, documents are missing or the intrusion into your privacy was disproportionate, you can object in writing and possibly claim rent reduction or an injunction. For formal steps and claims courts apply the ZPO; in practice the local court is your first point of contact for tenancy disputes^[2][3].

FAQ

When may a tradesperson enter without my consent?

Only in acute emergencies (e.g. burst pipe) may immediate action be taken; otherwise notification and coordination are required.

What deadlines apply for notifications?

There is no uniform statutory deadline in the BGB, but reasonable prior notice is expected; in disputes check contract terms and local case law.^[1]

Which forms do I need for proceedings?

For claims at local courts there are civil procedure forms or complaint templates; check the competent court and submit complete evidence.^[2]

How-To

1. Check deadlines and contract clauses, note date and time of the incident.
2. Collect documents: tenancy agreement, emails, photos and logs.
3. Create a formal log and send a written request to the landlord or property manager if needed.
4. Contact the local court or an official authority if no agreement is possible.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Information on courts in Germany

1. [1] §§ 535–538 BGB – German Civil Code (BGB)
2. [2] Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) – Rules on claims and proceedings
3. [3] Court competence – Federal Ministry of Justice