Requesting a Stairlift as a Tenant in Germany

Who pays? Funding and entitlements

As a tenant you may be entitled to grants for a stairlift. Different authorities at state and federal level are responsible, and rules vary by funding program. Check early for possible housing adaptation support under the residential funding rules.^[2]

• State funding programs for housing adaptation (often tiered grants).
• Benefits from the care insurance or integration assistance for mobility aids.
• Municipal social assistance and special funds for accessibility.

Landlord consent and legal basis

Structural changes in the rented property often require the landlord's consent; under the BGB the landlord may agree or require compensation arrangements.^[1] Talk to the landlord in writing and include cost estimates.

• Obtain written consent or offer a usage agreement.
• Collect cost estimates, technical data and installation plans.
• Contact advisory services (social welfare office, care support center) for help.
• If refused: consider legal review and possibly proceedings before the local court.^[3]

Forms and authorities

Forms differ by funding program. Common applications include the housing adaptation application at the state funding office, applications to the care insurance or applications for integration assistance. Ask which attachments are required (e.g. medical certificate, cost estimate).

• Form: Housing adaptation application at the state office (PDF or online).
• Form: Application for integration assistance or extra benefits at the local social authority.
• Form: Benefit application at the care insurer (for care-related support).

Planning costs and deadlines

Allow time for review and approval. Many funding bodies have deadlines and require evidence. Get several quotes and compare invoicing rules.

• Observe deadlines: processing can take weeks to months.
• Obtain cost estimates and check possible own contributions.
• Keep receipts and invoices for later reimbursement or subsidy accounting.

FAQ

Can I install a stairlift as a tenant without landlord consent?

Generally, structural changes often require the landlord's consent; medical necessity and funding programs can help resolve disputes.

Who reviews funding applications and what evidence is typical?

State or municipal funding bodies and care insurers review applications; typical evidence includes medical certificates, cost estimates and photos of the apartment area.

What if the landlord refuses?

First object in writing, involve advisory services and, if necessary, consider legal steps at the local court.

How-To

1. Find out about funding options and deadlines at your state funding office or the social welfare office.
2. Gather forms, obtain cost estimates and get a medical certificate.
3. Contact your landlord in writing with the documents and request consent.
4. Submit the funding application and include copies of consent or landlord communication.
5. If consent is denied, consider legal steps and initiating proceedings at the local court.^[3]

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – Civil Code (BGB)
• Gesetze im Internet – Residential Funding Act (WoFG)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law on tenancy

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) and local court jurisdiction
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case law on tenancy