Accessible Evacuation Plan for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you should know how an accessible evacuation plan improves safety and how it can be supported with funding. This text explains in plain language which steps you should take to document obstacles, how to collect evidence, and which authorities are responsible. It shows when landlords are obliged to act, which laws typically apply, and how to prepare funding applications. The goal is to provide practical instructions so that tenants can assert their rights and use funding options effectively.
Why an accessible evacuation plan matters
A clear, documented evacuation plan reduces risks for people with mobility limitations and helps emergency services perform rescues. Tenants should document which entrances, stairs or escape routes cause problems so landlords, operators or authorities can act specifically.
What should be documented
- Photos and videos of narrow passages, stairs and missing handrails
- Date and location details for each photo or video
- Written notices to the landlord with copies retained
- Contact details of witnesses or neighbors who can confirm the issue
- Invoices or cost estimates for necessary adjustments
Funding and official rules
There are federal and state programs that fund barrier-free conversions; check the conditions of your municipality and the federal government. For legal claims in tenancy law, the provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) apply to tenant rights and landlord obligations.[1] For court proceedings, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is relevant.[2]
How to talk with the landlord
Keep a factual, documented conversation and send a written request with a deadline if necessary. Describe the problems precisely, attach evidence photos and suggest possible measures (e.g. ramps, handrails, escape route marking).
Example measures that may be fundable
- Adding ramps or tactile markings at entrances
- Installing barrier-free doorways or automatic doors
- Improving lighting and escape route signage
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not collecting enough evidence or photos without context
- Missing deadlines in funding decisions
- Not saving important contacts and proofs
FAQ
- Who is responsible for an accessible evacuation plan?
- Generally the landlord is responsible for traffic safety and adequate escape routes; tenants should document issues and report them in writing.
- How do I document defects correctly?
- Collect dated photos, create a list of obstacles, save all communications with the landlord and, if possible, obtain cost estimates.
- What deadlines apply to funding applications?
- Deadlines vary by program and state; read the funding guidelines carefully and submit complete documents.
How-To
- Collect evidence: photos, videos and written notes about obstacles.
- Notify the landlord in writing and request a response with a deadline.
- Obtain cost estimates and check funding options from the municipality or federal programs.
- Submit funding applications on time and attach the documentation.
- If there is no response: inform the responsible authority or use the legal route via the local court.
Help and Support
- Gesetze im Internet – Federal law resources (BGB, ZPO)
- Judicial portal of the German states – court information
- Federal Ministry for Housing, Urban Development and Building
