CO Detectors for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany you should know how a CO detector (carbon monoxide alarm) is safely installed and used in high-rise buildings. This practical, tenant-friendly guide explains landlord and tenant duties, how to respond correctly to a CO alarm, and how a written defect notice works. You get clear emergency steps, tips for documenting readings and guidance on when to inform a professional service or the fire brigade. The guide also shows which official forms can be used, how to observe deadlines under the Civil Code (BGB) and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), and where to find help from the local court or authorities.
What is a CO detector and why is it important?
A CO detector senses odorless carbon monoxide that can come from faulty heating systems, gas appliances or incomplete combustion. In high-rise buildings proper placement is especially important because multiple units can be affected and evacuation is more complex. Inform your landlord immediately if an alarm sounds or you notice symptoms such as headache, dizziness or nausea.
Immediate actions on CO alarm
Stay calm and follow these steps to protect yourself and others.
- Ventilate immediately (safety) — open windows and doors to let in fresh air.
- Leave the apartment immediately (move-out) — remove all people and pets from the building.
- Call emergency number 112 (call) — notify fire brigade and ambulance, request medical help.
- Inform your landlord in writing (notice) — send a defect notice and document receipt.
- Document the defect with photos and readings (evidence) — photograph device, display and surroundings.
- Contact a technician or the fire brigade (inspect) — do not attempt repairs yourself, have a professional check.
Who pays and who is responsible?
Generally the landlord is responsible for providing safe, functioning equipment and must eliminate hazards; these duties are governed by the Civil Code (BGB).[1] If the CO detector is part of the apartment equipment or required by regulation, the landlord often bears acquisition and maintenance costs. Discuss payment questions in writing and keep records of any replies.
Rights, deadlines and courts
If the landlord does not act, you can request defect remediation in writing and set a reasonable deadline. If there is no response, the local court (Amtsgericht) handles tenancy disputes; higher appeals go to the Landgericht and Federal Court of Justice (BGH).[2] Observe deadlines under the BGB and procedural time limits in the ZPO.
Practical checklist for sending a defect notice
How to write an effective defect notice about CO risk — clear, complete and legally effective.
- Describe the problem precisely (location, date, time, alarm and symptoms).
- Attach photos and measurement logs (device, display, environment).
- Set a clear deadline for remediation (e.g. 7–14 days) and request confirmation.
- If there is no response, prepare documents for proceedings at the local court.
FAQ
- Are CO detectors mandatory in high-rise buildings?
- Whether CO detectors are mandatory depends on state building codes and the rental contract; often the landlord is responsible for safe devices.
- Who pays for purchase and maintenance?
- In many cases the landlord bears the costs for permanently installed safety equipment; specific rules are in the lease and the relevant sections of the BGB.[1]
- What should I do if the landlord does not respond?
- Send a written defect notice, set a deadline and, if necessary, contact the local court or seek legal advice.[3]
How-To
- Create a written defect letter with description and deadline.
- Attach photos, measurement logs and any witness statements.
- Set a reasonable remediation deadline and request feedback.
- If there is no response, prepare your documents for filing at the local court.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de
- Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) — bmj.de
