Accessible Evacuation Plan 2025: Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should not only know an accessible evacuation plan but document it systematically. This practical guide explains which records, photos and dates to collect, which official forms and deadlines to observe, and how to report defects to the landlord or the competent authority. Good documentation protects your tenant rights and helps you react faster in case of missing accessibility, blocked escape routes or insufficient assistance for people with disabilities. The steps are explained so you can act correctly without legal expertise. We also show which official forms exist, how to calculate deadlines and what role the local court plays in disputes. Keep emergency contacts and accessibility evidence ready.

What belongs in the documentation?

Complete documentation helps present problems with accessible evacuation routes clearly. Collect evidence systematically and keep copies in a safe place.

• Photos of escape routes, entrances and obstacles with date and time.
• Record appointments and deadlines, e.g. when a defect was discovered or reported.
• Written defect reports, emails and landlord responses as proof.
• Cost estimates for necessary adjustments or repairs.
• Emergency contacts, responsible persons and conversation logs.

Forms and deadlines

For claims and defect rights, the tenancy law rules are decisive, in particular the provisions of the BGB.^[1] There is no uniform nationwide template for a "tenant evacuation plan," but there are templates for defect reports and guidance from authorities. Use official forms or write a precise defect report with date, description and photo evidence.^[3]

How to report defects

If you find a defect in accessible escape routes, document the condition and inform the landlord in writing. Describe the problem factually, attach evidence and set a deadline for remediation.

• Written defect report to the landlord by letter or email.
• Secure photos, videos and dates as evidence.
• Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 14 days) for remediation.
• Send the report by registered mail or document the handover.

What to do if accessibility is missing?

If the landlord does not respond, consider further steps: report serious defects to the competent authority (e.g. public order office) and consider legal action before the competent local court.^[2] In case of acute dangerous conditions, contact the emergency authorities immediately.

• Contact the landlord first and describe the problem precisely.
• Set a deadline for defect correction and document the deadline.
• Secure evidence with photos and independent witness statements.
• If necessary: file a lawsuit at the competent local court.

FAQ

Who is responsible for barrier-free evacuation?

In general, the landlord is responsible for safe escape routes and removing obstacles.

What deadlines apply for defect correction?

There is no uniform deadline; typically a reasonable deadline of 14 to 30 days is set, depending on urgency.

Can I reduce the rent if escape routes are blocked?

Yes, rent reduction is possible for significant defects; check the requirements under §§ 535–536 BGB.^[1]

How-To

1. Take clear photos of defects and save date and time.
2. Write a written defect report and send it to the landlord.
3. Set a clear deadline for remediation (e.g. 14 days).
4. Keep emergency contacts and responsible persons ready.
5. Collect all documents in case a lawsuit at the local court becomes necessary.

Key Takeaways

• Thorough evidence collection protects your tenant rights.
• Observe deadlines and set them in writing.
• Written defect reports are key proof.

Help and Support

• German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

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1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – Forms and templates