Window Replacement Guide: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, a planned window replacement means more than new frames: it can affect comfort, heating costs and rent. Many landlords treat modernizations as necessary, but tenants have participation rights and information claims. In heritage protection, approval paths and cost questions change; preparation is crucial. This guide provides a practical checklist for tenants: how to check schedules and deadlines, which forms are relevant, how to assess costs and cost allocation, and how to negotiate with the landlord or the heritage authority. The aim is to clearly understand your rights and avoid conflicts. At the end you will find concrete steps, frequently asked questions and official links for forms and courts.

What tenants need to know about window replacement

A window replacement involves deadlines, access to the apartment, building permits and possibly cost allocation. Clarify in advance whether it is maintenance or a modernization, because that affects cost allocation and consent obligations.

• Check schedules and deadlines for the works carefully.
• Ask whether and which costs are to be allocated to tenants.
• Request all permits and applications, especially for heritage protection.
• Clarify rules for contractor access and scheduled appointments.
• Document the initial condition with photos and protocols.

Forms, deadlines and courts

Relevant legal foundations can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB), for example on rights and obligations in modernizations.^[1] For letters to the landlord, model letters or forms from the Federal Ministry of Justice can be helpful, e. g. for notifying dates or raising objections.^[2] In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually the competent instance for tenancy cases.^[3]

Example: If the landlord announces a modernization, request a detailed schedule, a cost breakdown and copies of all permits by email or registered mail. Prefer written proof for formal notifications.

FAQ

Who pays for the window replacement?

Generally the landlord pays the direct costs. Under certain conditions, part of the costs may be passed on to tenants in the case of modernizations.

Do I have to allow contractors into my apartment?

Yes, tenants must allow reasonable access for necessary works if appointments are announced in time and privacy is respected.

What changes under heritage protection?

Under heritage protection, additional permits are required; measures must be coordinated with the heritage authority and can affect schedule and costs.

How-To

1. Check your lease and find out about agreed modernizations.
2. Request a detailed schedule and exact deadlines from the landlord.
3. Ask for all application documents and permits, especially for heritage protection.
4. Photograph or document the initial condition before the work begins.
5. Negotiate cost sharing in writing and record any agreements.

Help and Support

• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) - Information and forms
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Case law
• Gesetze im Internet - German Civil Code (BGB)

1. [1] §535 BGB - Duties of the landlord
2. [2] Federal Ministry of Justice - Forms and guidance
3. [3] Justice portal of the federal and state governments - Courts and jurisdictions