Check CO Alarms: Tenant Guide for Germany

As a tenant in a high-rise in Germany, you should check CO alarms regularly so you and your neighbors stay protected. This guide explains how tenants can inspect CO alarms, which landlord duties exist under tenancy law, and which steps make sense during an alarm. You get a practical checklist for testing, documenting malfunctions and reporting problems to the landlord or authorities. We also describe which legal bases are relevant and which forms can help in a dispute. The language is accessible for non-lawyers and includes action steps so you can act quickly without legal jargon. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and links to official authorities.

Why CO alarms matter for tenants

Carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and can become dangerous if heating appliances, chimneys or ventilation are faulty. Tenants should know that ensuring the safety of the rented property can fall under the landlord's obligations.^[1] If a CO alarm fails or signals an alert, prompt and documented steps are important to avoid health harm and to prevent later disputes about responsibility.

Checklist: Check CO alarms in high-rises

• Test monthly (test): Press the test button and note date and time.
• Check/replace batteries (safety): Replace batteries on low‑battery warning or at least every 12 months.
• Check location (entry): Ensure detectors are not covered or obstructed.
• Report defects in writing (notice): Send a short email or letter to the landlord with a deadline.
• Collect evidence (evidence): Photos, measurement logs, witnesses and times.
• If symptoms or alarm occur call 112 immediately (call) and leave the flat.

Rights, duties and forms

Fundamentally, the German Civil Code (BGB) governs the landlord's obligations to maintain the rented property and to avert dangers. Key provisions are found in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] If the landlord does not respond, tenants can consider steps under the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), for example filing a lawsuit at the competent local court (Amtsgericht).^[2]

Important forms in disputes include the application for legal aid (Prozesskostenhilfe, PKH) and the complaint filing at the local court. A practical example: If you repeatedly report CO alarms, the landlord does not remedy the problem within a set deadline and the hazard continues, you may file a lawsuit at the Amtsgericht and apply for PKH if costs are a barrier.^[3]

FAQ

Who must install CO alarms?

This can vary by state building code and lease; in many cases the landlord is responsible for technical safety and providing reliable detectors.^[1]

How do I report a defect correctly?

Always report defects in writing (email or letter), describe the fault, attach photos and set a reasonable deadline for repair.

Can I reduce my rent if the CO alarm does not work?

Rent reduction may be possible if usability is significantly impaired; success depends on proof and circumstances, so document everything carefully.

How-To

1. Test: Press the test button and note date and result.
2. Document: Photograph the device and note time and any symptoms.
3. Inform the landlord: Send a written defect notice with a deadline.
4. Emergency 112: If alarm persists or health issues occur, call 112 and evacuate.
5. Consider court steps: If there is no response, consider filing a claim and PKH at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Test CO alarms regularly and keep written records.
• Document defects with photos and timestamps to preserve evidence.
• In emergencies call 112 and evacuate; health first.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§ 535–580a (Gesetze im Internet)
• ZPO (Code of Civil Procedure) — forms and guidance
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — case law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de