CO Alarms for Tenants in Germany: 5 Steps

Many tenants in German cities underestimate the danger of carbon monoxide. This guide explains step by step how, as a tenant in Germany, you can safely install CO alarms, document incidents, and create a verifiable checklist so you can act quickly in an emergency and protect your rights. We describe practical methods of evidence collection, deadlines, contacts, and the formal steps that matter when communicating with landlords or in proceedings before the local court. The language is plain, examples are practical, and at the end you will find a fillable inspection protocol and references to official forms and competent authorities. We explain relevant sections of the BGB (§§ 535–539)^[1], the duties landlords have, and how to structure evidence for defects or breaches of duty. We also show how to meet deadlines and prepare applications for the local court.

What tenants in big cities should do

Quick overview: With clear steps and reliable documentation you avoid risks and can report defects effectively.

• Buy and install CO alarms (repair): Choose a suitable alarm, follow manufacturer instructions and mount at recommended locations.
• Check location (safety): Place alarms in bedrooms and living areas away from exhaust sources and follow the manual.
• Document incidents (record): Take photos, note date and time, and save measurement logs.
• Inform the landlord in writing (notice): Report the defect, set a deadline for remedy and document handovers.
• Consider legal steps (court): If there is no response, respect deadlines and consider filing a claim at the local court.

Practical documentation example: Immediately take photos of the device, note date and time, save log files and send a formal defect notice to the landlord by registered mail or email with read receipt. A precise protocol also helps in court, because civil procedure rules and deadlines are set out in the ZPO^[2] and objections often require formal evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who must provide the CO alarm?

This can depend on the lease and local regulations; generally the landlord must ensure safe living conditions, but many tenants may install alarms themselves and should document this.

How do I write a defect notice?

Include date, location, a precise description of the issue, attach photos, and set a clear deadline for remedy (e.g. 14 days). Keep postal and delivery receipts.

Where to turn in disputes?

For unresolved defects you can go to the competent local court; for legal precedents the Bundesgerichtshof is the higher authority^[3].

How-To

1. Buy a CO alarm: Look for certification marks and sensor lifespan information.
2. Choose the right location: Install in bedrooms and living spaces away from exhaust sources.
3. Document incidents: Record photos, date, time and measurements; keep a logbook.
4. Inform the landlord: Send a written defect notice with a clear remedy deadline.
5. Consider legal action: Check deadlines and consider filing at the local court if there is no response.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de