Landlord entering your flat: when they can come in
When you have to let your landlord in and when you can refuse.
Your landlord can enter your flat only for a specific reason and after giving notice in good time, except in a genuine emergency. If the visit is legitimate, offer a time that suits you. Someone you trust can be there in your place.
When the landlord can enter
The landlord has no general right of access. The landlord needs a reason and has to give notice.
- 1
Repairs and servicing
You have to allow repair and servicing visits that were announced.
- 2
Meter reading
A meter reading is also a specific reason for a visit.
- 3
Viewing
A viewing counts as a reason if it is announced in good time.
- 4
Notice for a routine visit
A routine visit needs roughly three to four days to two weeks' notice.
- 5
Notice for an urgent repair
For an urgent repair, 24 to 48 hours' notice is sometimes enough.
- 6
No notice in a genuine emergency
A genuine emergency such as a burst pipe needs no notice at all.
Why this matters
Art. 13 GG protects your home as inviolable, and the lease gives you sole use of the flat (§ 535 BGB). That is why the landlord needs a specific reason and has to give notice in good time.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice does the landlord have to give before a visit?
For routine visits, the landlord has to give roughly three to four days to two weeks' notice. For urgent repairs, 24 to 48 hours is sometimes enough. Only a genuine emergency, such as a burst pipe, needs no notice.
Can the landlord keep a key to my flat?
The landlord can keep a key only with your express consent. At handover they must give you all keys (§ 535 BGB). Even with a key, the landlord cannot enter unannounced or while you are away.
What can I do if the landlord just walks in?
If the landlord just walks in, that is verbotene Eigenmacht (unlawful interference, § 858 BGB) and can be criminal trespass (§ 123 StGB). Object in writing and note every incident with the date. If it happens again, sue for an injunction to make the landlord stop.
Also in this topic: Water damage in a rented flat: who pays what?No Energieausweis shown? Your rights as a tenantDo tenants in Germany need liability insurance?Noise & Ruhestörung in a German rental: your rightsAll guides: Rights & duties
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