CO Alarms for Tenants in Germany 2025

What Tenants Should Know

As a tenant in Germany, you should know how and where a CO alarm is properly installed, which obligations landlords and tenants have, and which steps help in case of problems. This checklist explains in plain language when a CO alarm is required, what to look for when buying and mounting it, how to perform function checks and how to report defects in a legally sound way. I describe simple action steps, which records you should collect and which courts or authorities are responsible in case of disputes. The goal is to support you practically so that CO hazards are detected in time and liability issues are clearly resolved. You will also find notes on technical standards, recommended measurement intervals and contacts for emergencies. If your landlord does not respond, I also explain how to set deadlines, secure evidence and, if necessary, prepare a written statement to the local court.

Duties and Legal Situation

In principle, tenancy law in the BGB regulates the duty to provide and maintain the rented property; specific requirements for CO alarms can be added at state or municipal level. Important basics can be found in the BGB and the ZPO; in disputes, local courts are usually responsible.^[1][2]

Quick Check Before Installation

• Choose location (inspect): central in bedrooms and hallways, not directly at cooking areas.
• Clarify costs (rent): check whether the landlord covers costs or whether they count as operating costs.
• Check device (repair): CE marking and function test according to manufacturer instructions.
• Create documentation (document): keep purchase receipt, serial number, photo of installation site and date.
• Inform landlord (notice): send a written notice and set a deadline for remedy.

If the Landlord Does Not Act

If the landlord does not respond to your written request to provide or repair the CO alarm, you should set a deadline and announce what you will do, e.g. arrange installation yourself or consider a rent reduction. Secure all evidence: letters, photos, witnesses. If necessary, you can enforce your rights at the competent local court.^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for the CO alarm?

In many cases the landlord is responsible; check your lease and communicate in writing whether costs will be covered.

Do I have to test the alarm as a tenant?

Yes, regular function checks are advisable; document the date and result of the tests.

What do I do in case of acute CO danger?

Leave the apartment immediately, call the emergency number and inform the landlord and the fire brigade.

How-To

1. Check location (inspect): choose a central place, avoid direct cooking areas.
2. Save purchase receipt (document): keep serial number and invoice.
3. Perform installation (repair): insert battery and press test button.
4. Inform landlord in writing (file): notify about installation and request confirmation.
5. In case of dispute: collect documents and consider filing at the local court (court).

Help & Support

• View laws on tenancy (BGB) (rent): official legal texts help clarify the legal situation.
• Information on courts and responsibilities (court): local courts are the first instance for tenancy disputes.
• Federal Court for decisions and case law (help): BGH decisions give orientation on standards.

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — BGB §535 Mietvertrag
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Justizportal — Informationen zu Gerichten und Zuständigkeiten