CO Alarms in High-Rises: Tenant Safety in Germany

Carbon monoxide (CO) is invisible and odorless, so functioning CO alarms are especially important for tenants in Germany living in high-rises. This article explains in plain language what duties and rights you have as a tenant, how to correctly install and test CO alarms, which documentation is helpful, and how to act safely in an alarm situation. We name relevant legal bases, show practical test steps and explain how to report defects or secure evidence if there is a dispute with the landlord. The goal is that you act safely, meet deadlines and contact the right authorities quickly in an emergency.

Why CO alarms matter

CO is produced by incomplete combustion (e.g., defective heating appliances or connected stoves). In high-rises, CO can spread through stairwells, service shafts, or multiple floors, so a single faulty connection can pose risks to several apartments.

Tenant rights and obligations

The landlord is generally obliged to hand over and maintain the apartment in an appropriate condition; these duties are regulated by provisions of the BGB.^[1] As a tenant you should report defects affecting safety immediately in writing. If the landlord does not respond, you may consider rent reduction or other legal steps; deadlines and the correct form of the notice are important.^[1]

How to report defects correctly

• Written defect notice: Describe the issue, time and effects and send the notice by email with read receipt or by registered mail.
• Evidence preservation: Photos, measurements and a test log help later in disputes.
• If necessary: Lawsuit at the local court, for example for eviction or enforceable defect remediation claims; procedural rules are in the ZPO.^[2]

Maintenance and testing of CO alarms

Regular checks and simple maintenance increase the reliability of CO alarms. Follow manufacturer instructions for placement (near bedrooms, specified heights) and test the function button regularly.

• Maintenance: Perform a visual inspection and function test at least once a year.
• Battery replacement: For battery-operated alarms replace the battery as soon as the low-battery indication appears.
• Test log: Record date, result and any maintenance measures.

What to do when an alarm sounds

1. Evacuate the apartment immediately and close doors to limit spread.
2. Call emergency services (112) if people experience symptoms such as headache, dizziness or nausea.
3. Inform the landlord and property manager in writing about the incident and request a technical investigation.

How-To

1. Check location: Place CO alarms according to the manufacturer in bedrooms and corridors.
2. Function test: Test the alarm monthly with the test button.
3. Document: Record date, test result and any maintenance actions.
4. In case of alarm: Evacuate, call emergency services and inform the landlord.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who must install CO alarms?

In many federal states there are regulations; generally the landlord is responsible for procurement and installation, tenants must treat devices properly.

Can I reduce rent if the alarm is missing?

Missing or defective CO protection can constitute a rental defect; document the defect and give the landlord a deadline to remedy it.

Whom do I contact for repeated alarms?

Call 112 in emergencies. For technical causes arrange an inspection by a certified technician and inform the property manager in writing.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535 ff. – Tenancy obligations
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO – Civil Procedure Code
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law