Stairlift Approval: Tenant Rights in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you need clear information when a stairlift becomes necessary: how to obtain the landlord's consent, which funding options exist, and what deadlines apply? This text explains in plain language which rights tenants have, which forms and authorities are important, and how to practically prepare documents and applications. We show concrete action steps for notifying about repair or conversion needs, checking funding programs and, if necessary, taking disputes to the local court. The guidance is tailored to rental contract situations and social funding and gives practical examples for conversations with landlords and authorities.

When do tenants need approval for a stairlift?

Basically, structural changes to the rented property or stairwell require consent. Ask your landlord in writing for permission, explain the reasons (health, mobility) and offer a reversible installation. Refer to your rights and the possibility of funding to counter the landlord's objections^[1]. If the landlord refuses without valid reason, you should consider legal steps and collect evidence.

Practical steps before installation

• Letter: Draft a short, factual letter with the installation request, cost estimate and a deadline for reply.
• Collect evidence: Attach medical certificates, cost estimates and photos.
• Check funding: Verify subsidies from the long-term care insurance (§ 40 SGB XI) or KfW programs for age-appropriate remodeling.
• Pre-meeting: Arrange a meeting with the landlord and offer a neutral technician inspection.

Financing and official funding

Many tenants are eligible for subsidies from the long-term care insurance for home environment improvement measures; this benefit is regulated in § 40 SGB XI^[2]. In addition, KfW offers funding programs for age-appropriate remodeling that can also apply to stairlifts^[3]. Apply for funding before placing binding orders and attach cost estimates.

• Application: Ask your long-term care insurer for the required form and submit medical certificates and cost estimates.
• Deadlines: Pay attention to processing times of insurers and funding agencies and schedule appointments accordingly.

What to do if the landlord refuses?

If the landlord refuses, document the refusal and state in writing why the installation is necessary and reasonable. Consider mediation offers or legal review. Rental disputes about structural changes are usually heard by the local court; proceedings follow the rules of the ZPO^[4].

Important for contract and installation

• Removal agreement: Put in writing who will remove the stairlift upon moving out and who bears the cost.
• Cost sharing: Clarify financing, subsidies and possible allocations with the landlord.
• Warranty: Contractually define responsibilities for maintenance and repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord generally prohibit the installation?

No, a general prohibition is not automatically permissible; however, an interest balancing is expected. An offer of removal security often helps.

Who pays maintenance and repairs?

This should be agreed in writing before installation; without agreement, the user typically bears ongoing costs.

Which authorities and courts are responsible?

In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance for tenancy matters; higher instances include the regional court or, for precedent, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

How-To

1. Step 1: Obtain a medical certificate and document the need in writing.
2. Step 2: Collect cost estimates from at least two providers.
3. Step 3: Send a written approval request to the landlord and set a reply deadline.
4. Step 4: Check funding options and apply to the long-term care insurer or KfW.
5. Step 5: Use mediation or legal advice if refused.
6. Step 6: As a last resort, file a claim at the local court.

Help and Support

• KfW: Altersgerecht Umbauen
• Long-term care insurance: Home environment improvement (§ 40 SGB XI)
• Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] SGB XI § 40 Wohnumfeldverbessernde Maßnahmen — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] KfW: Programm "Altersgerecht Umbauen" — kfw.de
4. [4] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de