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17.12.2025

Does the landlord have to provide sun protection? Rights and obligations

Apartment building with ROMA Roller Shutters

Does the landlord have to provide sun protection? This is a question that concerns many tenants - especially in summer, when apartments heat up uncomfortably. One thing is clear: sun protection significantly increases living comfort. But who is actually responsible for the equipment - the tenant or the landlord? And what about Roller Shutters, awnings or other sun protection solutions? In this article, we clarify what applies under tenancy law and what options tenants have.

Are you looking for a solution for effective sun protection in your rented apartment? Find a qualified ROMA specialist partner near you now.

Does the landlord have to provide sun protection? The most important facts in brief

  • The landlord is not obliged to provide sun protection - exceptions only apply if contractually agreed.

  • Fixed installations are only permitted with the landlord's consent.

  • Mobile solutions such as sunshades may generally be used without consent.

  • Landlords also benefit from high-quality systems, e.g. through increased value and energy efficiency.

  • BAFA subsidy possible: External sun protection can be subsidized by the state.

Sun protection in rented apartments: Who is responsible?

The landlord is generally responsible forfitting out a rented apartment. However,sun protection is not automatically part of the standard equipment- unless this has been expressly agreed in the tenancy agreement. Thereis nolegal obligation to provide Roller Shutters, External Venetian Blinds, Textile Screensor Awnings.


Does the landlord have to install sun protection?

Only if sun protection systems are mentioned in the tenancy agreement or guaranteed at the time of handover is the landlord entitled to do so. Otherwise,tenantsmay take actionthemselves- but onlyto the extent permittedandwithout interfering with the fabric of the building.

What advantages do landlords have with sun shading systems?

Landlords also benefit from modern sun shading equipment. The advantages are obvious:

  • Increasing the value of the property: high-quality external shading such as Roller Shutters, External Venetian Blinds or Textile Screens raise the standard of fittings.

  • Attractiveness when renting: apartments with functional sun protection are more desirable - especially on upper floors or in penthouses.

  • Reduced energy requirements in summer: External sun shading contributes to energy efficiency, reduces cooling requirements, saves heating costs and supports sustainable living.

  • Protection of the building fabric: sun shading systems prevent overheating, UV damage to furniture and cracks in floor coverings.

Apartment building with ROMA Roller Shutters from below

Tip: Anyone modernizing or renovating their property to make it more energy efficient should plan in sun protection systems directly - such as solar-powered Roller Shutters or automatic External Venetian Blinds.

BAFA subsidy for external sun shading

External sun protection is eligible for funding if it contributes to the reduction of summer heat loads - e.g. in the case of energy-efficient renovations. As part of the Federal Subsidy for Efficient Buildings (BEG), BAFA specifically supports measures such as External Venetian Blinds, Textile Screens or Roller Shutters with verifiable thermal insulation.

ROMA offers a practical tool for landlords and building owners in the form of the free BAFA subsidy assistant - for quick and legally compliant applications.

Awnings and sun protection on the terrace: who pays?

Awnings are not part of the basic rental equipment and must be purchased and financed by the tenant - but only with the landlord's consent. This also applies to external Textile Screens or awnings that are permanently installed.

Solutions for rental apartments: Flexible and effective

ROMA offers sun shading systems that have been specially developed for retrofit installations and sensitive living situations. These include in particular

Tip: Always coordinate planned measures with your landlord - this way, sustainable and value-enhancing solutions can be implemented together.

Sun protection for rental apartments

Measure
Location
Authorization required?
Who bears the costs?
Internal roller blinds
Inside the window
no
Tenant
Mobile sunshades or awnings
Balcony or terrace
no
Tenant
External Roller Shutters, External Venetian Blinds or Textile Screens (permanently installed)
Outside on the façade, in front of the window
Yes
Usually tenants
Awning with hole in façade
Balcony or terrace
Yes
Usually tenants

Know your rights, find solutions

Anyone living in a rented apartment must adhere to clear guidelines when it comes to sun shading. Nevertheless, there are numerous effective, permit-free and retrofittable solutions that increase rental comfort and energy efficiency. At the same time, landlords also benefit from increased value, better rentability and state subsidies.

ROMA offers proven, durable sun shading systems "Made in Germany" - ideal for tenants and landlords who rely on quality in the long term.

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Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about sun protection by landlords

Does the landlord have to install Roller Shutters?

No, there is no legal obligation for landlords to install Roller Shutters. Roller Shutters are not part of the basic equipment of a rental apartment, unless they were expressly promised in the rental agreement or when the apartment was handed over. In this case, the landlord must ensure that they are in working order. Otherwise, the tenant is responsible for additional sun protection.

Who pays for an awning in a rented apartment?

As a rule , the tenant bears the costs for an awning if this is also desired. However, the landlord must expressly agree to the installation - especially if drilling holes in the façade or changes to the building are necessary. Consent should always be given in writing. Without approval, you may have to dismantle the awning at your own expense.

What applies to sun protection on the terrace of a rented apartment?

Mobile sun protection solutions such as sunshades may generally be used without the landlord's consent. The situation is different for permanently installed systems - permission is always required here.

Where can I find suitable sun shading systems for rental apartments?

ROMA specialist dealers offer you individual and rentable solutions. Here you will not only receive personal advice, but also information on technical implementation, eligible measures and the possibility of retrofitting Roller Shutters - e.g. via solar drive or clever mounting systems.

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