Flat viewings: what you have to allow as a tenant
When you have to allow viewings for a sale or reletting, and how you get a say in the appointments.
You only have to allow viewings if the landlord has a reason and gives proper notice, usually three to four days ahead. Suggest your own times and group the viewers together.
The rules for a flat viewing
The Hausrecht (your right to decide who enters) stays with you. The landlord has to agree appointments with you, not dictate them.
- 1
There must be a reason
The landlord needs a reason such as a sale or reletting.
- 2
Notice in good time
Three to four days ahead is usual. The law sets no fixed period.
- 3
How often
Around one to three viewings a month count as reasonable.
- 4
When and how long
Viewings take place on weekdays at normal hours and last up to about 45 minutes.
- 5
You keep your key
You do not have to hand over a key. If you cannot be there, someone you trust can open the door.
- 6
Confirm in writing
Confirm each appointment by message, with the reason, date, time, length and who opens the door.
Why this matters
Your home is inviolable under Art. 13 GG, and the lease gives you sole use of it (§ 535 BGB). That is why a viewing needs a concrete reason, and why the landlord has to agree appointments with you.
General information, not legal advice.
Frequently asked questions
How much notice does the landlord have to give?
The law sets no notice period for viewings. Three to four days is usual. For tenants who do not work, 24 hours can be enough in exceptional cases.
Do I have to let the landlord and agent in while I am away?
No, you do not have to let them in while you are away. Entry without you is verbotene Eigenmacht (unlawful interference with your possession, § 858 BGB).
Do I have to hand over a key for the viewings?
No, you do not have to hand over a key. If you cannot be there, someone you trust can open the door.
Also in this topic: Handing back a flat without the landlord: model letterWohnungsübergabe at move-out: tenant checklist before you signWohnungsübergabe: what to bring to your flat handover (2026 checklist)Zwischenmiete: documenting the handoverAll guides: Handover & viewings
Moving out soon?
Record your flat's condition before you hand back the keys. BildProof guides you through every room and creates a structured condition report.
Create your proof