Visitation Rights in Dormitories: Tenants in Germany 2025

As a tenant in a dormitory in Germany, visitation rights can matter—for example with long stays, overnight visitors, or time-limited guests. This article explains in plain language how to document visits correctly, which deadlines and proofs are relevant, and which official forms you can use. We show what information photos, written agreements, or witnesses should contain, how to keep a continuous log, and when written communication with management is necessary. Practical templates, pointers to authorities and what counts in court help protect your rights. The text is aimed at tenants without legal training and gives concrete action steps for 2025.

What to document?

For disputes it is important to have clear, dated evidence. Document every relevant meeting, communication and any disturbance or restriction.

• Photos (photo) of presence, time, location and the condition of the room or shared areas.
• Short written notes (document) with date, time, names of visitors and duration of the visit.
• Witness statements by e-mail or signed statements from roommates or neighbors.
• Correspondence with management or the landlord, including requests and responses.
• Time records (time) when deadlines or house rules play a role.

Legal basis and authorities

The main legal rules for tenancy relations are in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a ^[1]. For court procedures, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies and local courts (Amtsgerichte) are competent in the first instance ^[3][2]. Use these legal sources as a basis before taking formal steps.

Practical notes

• Note time and duration of each visit and save photos with dates.
• Also keep important conversations in writing (email or message) so there is proof.
• If the dorm rules contain restrictions, document deviations and any permissions.

FAQ

Do I have a general visitation right as a tenant in a dormitory?

There is no blanket statutory visitation right; rights arise from the rental contract, house rules and the BGB. Clarify agreements in writing and check the contract for restrictions.

How do I prove a visit if the landlord objects?

Photo documentation, emails, messages, a visit log and witness statements help. Note date, time and duration; keep copies of all communications.

When should I involve the local court?

If out-of-court clarifications fail and rights are violated (e.g. unjustified bans or eviction threats), a suit at the competent local court may be necessary. Competence and procedure are regulated by the ZPO.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: photos, messages and witness recordings.
2. Keep a continuous log with date and time.
3. Send a formal request or complaint to management and request a written reply.
4. Use advisory centers or legal information before filing a claim.
5. If necessary: file a claim at the competent local court and attach all evidence in order.

Help and Support

• Laws: BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
• Court information: Federal Court of Justice
• ZPO: Code of Civil Procedure — Gesetze im Internet

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Information on courts and competence — Federal Ministry of Justice and for Consumer Protection
3. [3] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet