Viewing Appointments in WGs: Tenant Rights in Germany

As a tenant in a shared flat (WG) in Germany, it is important to know clearly how viewing appointments may be organized, who is allowed access and how to record appointments. In shared flats, several tenants live together, so in addition to the lease contract, data protection and personal rights apply. This article explains in practical terms which consents are required, which deadlines must be observed, how to record agreements in writing and which pieces of evidence can help in a dispute. I also explain how to avoid conflicts, which courts are responsible and which official legal bases support your rights. The information is written for non-legal readers and helps to organize viewings fairly and legally secure.

Who can request viewing appointments?

In principle, the landlord can carry out viewings if there is a legitimate interest (e.g. finding a new tenant, sale or necessary work). Within a WG, decisions that affect the shared flat should be coordinated with the tenants involved. If the lease is in the name of a single tenant, that tenant has individual obligations; for a joint tenancy agreement, decisions should be agreed among all tenants.

Access rights, deadlines and privacy

Access to the flat must not be arbitrary. Typically, appointments must be announced and coordinated with a reasonable notice period; emergencies are an exception. Respect sensitive areas (bed and private rooms) and agree on meeting points in the living areas acceptable to all roommates. If individual roommates are absent, the consent of one roommate alone usually does not authorize entry to another person's room without separate permission.

Practical preparation and documentation

Written coordination and minutes help to avoid later disputes. Note the time, participants, purpose of the viewing and any agreements. Photos or short notes about visible defects can serve as evidence. If possible, use a shared table or email distribution list so all WG members are informed.

• Obtain written consent (form): record date, time and purpose.
• Respect private areas: only agreed rooms may be entered.
• Keep minutes: document participants, time, defects and agreements.
• Set a reasonable notice period (deadline): announce appointments in time.

What to do in case of conflicts?

If agreements cannot be reached, send a written request to the landlord or seek mediation by a third party. In rental disputes, the local courts (Amtsgericht) are responsible. In case of dispute, you can use evidence from your records; review the legal basis in the Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a ^[1] and contact the competent local court ^[2] or for higher-court rulings, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) ^[3].

Forms and official letters

There is no uniform federal form solely for viewings. Relevant written templates tenants may use include defect notifications or deadlines; these do not have a prescribed official form. In your documentation, include at minimum date, time, participants, purpose and signatures (or email confirmations). For formal steps (e.g. a complaint about unlawful entry), a written, verifiable letter is recommended.

FAQ

Who must in a WG agree to a viewing?

All directly affected tenants should agree; the consent of the respective occupant is required for private rooms.

How much notice must the landlord give?

Reasonable notice is required; exact deadlines depend on the purpose, emergencies excepted.

How do I document viewing appointments correctly?

Note date, time, participants, purpose and visible defects; save emails and photos as evidence.

How-To

1. Start coordination: notify all WG members in writing about purpose and possible dates.
2. Set the appointment: choose a time suitable for most and announce it with notice.
3. Secure private areas: clarify which rooms may be entered and obtain separate permission.
4. Make minutes: record participants, time, purpose and outcomes and distribute them.
5. In escalation: follow steps for a formal complaint at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Advance communication prevents most conflicts.
• A simple protocol is often decisive evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) at Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (information on the court system)

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Federal Ministry of Justice – Information on courts
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case law