What tenants are allowed to do in the stairwell – and what they are not allowed to do

Opinions differ on the extent to which tenants may use the stairwell and what they are allowed to store there. Courts sometimes issue conflicting rulings. However, the fundamental principle is that the safety of all residents is paramount. This means that escape routes must be kept clear.

Nevertheless, strollers and walkers may be left in the stairwell. If an apartment building has no elevator, young parents are allowed to leave their strollers on the ground floor. The same ruling applies to walkers. However, these must be folded up and stored in a space-saving manner whenever possible.

However, furniture is prohibited in the stairwell. Anyone who doesn't have enough space in their apartment is not allowed to simply place a wardrobe in the stairwell. Exceptions apply to residents on the top floor. If it doesn't obstruct passage or block anyone else's way, they are allowed to place small shoe cabinets in the stairwell in front of their apartment door.

Otherwise, shoes may not simply be left outside the apartment door. Generally, dirty or wet footwear must also be kept inside the apartment.

Source: Immonet.de