Report Basement Fire Safety Issues – Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, basement fire safety defects can endanger your safety and that of your family. This article explains step by step how to reliably report defects, which deadlines and pieces of evidence are important, and which official forms or authorities you should contact. We name the relevant sections of the BGB, show when a rent reduction or a written request to the landlord is sensible, and describe how to prepare a report to the responsible office or court. Technical terms are explained simply so you can act without legal training. At the end you will find practical templates, authority links and a clear checklist for quick, legally secure steps. Use the guidance responsibly.
What to do if you notice fire safety defects in the basement?
Your first step is documentation: take photos, note the date and any witnesses. This creates the basis for legal action under the BGB[1] and possible court proceedings under the ZPO[2].
- Take photos of the defect location and note the date.
- Send a written defect notice to the landlord (registered mail recommended) and keep a copy.
- Set a deadline for remediation (e.g. 14 days) and state the desired outcome clearly.
- If there is immediate danger, inform the fire brigade or local building authority right away.
- Keep all messages, receipts and appointments organized.
If the landlord does not respond or the danger persists, you can involve authorities or prepare legal steps. Use the written defect notice as a basis; it is often a prerequisite for later claims under the BGB[1]. In court proceedings, the rules of the ZPO apply[2], and decisions of the Federal Court of Justice can provide guidance[3].
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I have to report fire safety defects immediately?
- Yes. Report defects to the landlord in writing immediately and document evidence so you can assert your rights under the BGB.[1]
- Can I reduce the rent if the basement is unsafe?
- Under certain conditions yes. A rent reduction requires a significant defect; document the extent and duration of the defect and refer to the relevant BGB provisions.[1]
- Who can I inform if the landlord does not act?
- In case of danger: fire brigade or building authority; for legal disputes: the local court for tenancy disputes under the ZPO.[2]
How-To
- Collect evidence: photos, date, witnesses and all relevant details.
- Send a formal defect notice to the landlord and keep a copy.
- Set a deadline for remediation (e.g. 14 days).
- If there is no response, inform the authorities or prepare court action (observe ZPO).[2]
- Consider legal action or mediation; BGH decisions may affect prospects.[3]
Key Takeaways
- Act quickly and set deadlines to preserve your rights.
- Good documentation strengthens your position in disputes.
- Always send written notifications to the landlord.
