Viewing Appointments: Tenant Rights in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder how viewing appointments should be handled when they are not at home. This guide explains in plain language what rights and duties you have as a tenant, how landlords must announce appointments and which timeframes apply. You will learn practically how a written power of attorney can help, what documentation (photos, notes) is useful and how to protect your privacy. Examples show how to delegate appointments or arrange instructions with neighbors without risking legal disadvantages. The goal is that viewings proceed fairly, transparently and in compliance with the law so that you as a tenant retain security and control.
When may the landlord view the apartment?
In principle, the landlord does not have unrestricted access rights to the rented apartment. According to tenancy law rules, viewings are only permissible with prior notice and while respecting privacy; the legal basis can be found in the BGB (e.g. landlord duties to maintain the rental property).[1] In practice this means: reasonable notice period, appointment agreement and avoidance of disturbance to peaceful enjoyment.
Preparation: Rights and duties
- Arrange appointments in good time and state preferred time windows so deadlines are met.
- You may refuse access if the notice is unreasonable or no deadline was respected.
- Create a written power of attorney if you send a representative; templates and guidance can be found at official sources.[2]
- Document viewings with date, time and attendees, ideally with a photo or short note.
Practical steps when absent
If you are not at home, you can give the landlord a written power of attorney, nominate a trusted person or set clear access restrictions (e.g. only specific rooms, presence of third parties). State a narrow time frame and require feedback immediately after the viewing. If the owner enters without consent, this can give rise to injunctions or claims for damages.
Forms and templates
A commonly used document is the "Kündigungsschreiben Muster des BMJ" as an example for formal letters; there are also templates for access powers at official sources. Use public templates only as a basis and adapt them to your case. Example: a power of attorney can be drafted to apply only for a specific appointment and list the rooms that are permitted.[2]
FAQ
- Does the landlord have the right to enter the apartment at any time?
- No. The landlord must announce appointments and may not unreasonably disturb peaceful enjoyment. Exceptions exist for urgent repairs.
- Can I send a representative if I am absent?
- Yes. A written power of attorney should specify the appointment, the representative's name and the rooms allowed.
- What do I do if the landlord enters without permission?
- Document the event, notify the landlord in writing and consider legal action, possibly through the local court.
How-To
- Request a written appointment proposal with date and time window.
- Prepare a written power of attorney for a trusted person if absent.
- Document condition and attendees on site with a photo or note.
- Limit which rooms may be entered and record this in the protocol.
- Contact the appropriate authority or the local court for advice if in doubt.
Key points
- You can restrict access and request privacy.
- Use written powers of attorney for representatives.
- Keep protocols as evidence.
