CO Detectors for Tenants in Germany: Installation
As a tenant in a high-rise building in Germany, you should know how CO detectors are installed, maintained and who is responsible. This practical guide explains in clear language which rules apply to landlords and tenants, which deadlines matter and which official forms and authorities can help. You will learn how to report defects, what rights you have regarding rent reduction or emergency measures and when a local court is competent. Especially important are safe mounting locations, regular battery changes and documentation of defects. This text is aimed at tenants without legal expertise and provides step-by-step instructions so you can enforce your safety and rights in residential high-rises in Germany.
Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords
In general, the German Civil Code (BGB) regulates the landlord's duties to provide a suitable dwelling; from this arise the landlord's repair and safety obligations.[1] As a tenant, you should report defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline for the landlord to remedy them. If there is no response, further steps such as rent reduction or legal action may follow; local courts (Amtsgericht) are usually competent in such disputes.[2]
CO Detectors: Installation and Maintenance
CO detectors must be mounted so they detect carbon monoxide early and warn occupants. Common recommendations are mounting in bedrooms and living areas at the height specified by the manufacturer, not directly next to stoves or fireplaces. Choose certified devices and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
- Mounting at recommended locations: bedrooms and corridors, not above stoves or directly next to fireplaces.
- Regular checks and battery replacement according to the manufacturer, usually annually.
- Send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a clear deadline for remedy.
If your lease contains specific rules on installation, check them carefully. In many cases the landlord is responsible for purchase or installation, in other cases contractual allocation of duties may apply. In your defect notice name device type, installation location and since when the device is missing or not functioning; sample forms and procedural information are available via the relevant justice portals.[3]
What to Do in Case of an Alarm?
An alarm is an emergency: act immediately and deliberately.
- Immediately open windows and doors to ventilate rooms and disperse carbon monoxide.
- Call emergency number 112 if people show symptoms such as dizziness, nausea or loss of consciousness.
- Leave the apartment and warn roommates or neighbors.
- Document incidents: time, symptoms, readings and photos; this documentation helps for later steps.
Forms and Practical Templates
Important official forms for tenants include, for example, the written statement of claim or the complaint form for eviction actions (forms and guidance via the justice portals) and local templates for defect notices, which are often available as templates at the local court or on state websites. In the letter, describe the problem clearly, set a deadline (e.g. 14 days) and request confirmation of receipt. Examples:
- Eviction claim / complaint form: used when the landlord does not vacate despite a court decision.
- Written defect notice (template letter): useful to formally set deadlines and demands.
FAQ
- Does my landlord have to install CO detectors in high-rise buildings?
- That depends on state and contract rules; in principle the landlord is responsible for providing safe living conditions, check your contract and report defects in writing.[1]
- What can I do if the landlord does not respond?
- Send a written defect notice with a deadline and document everything; next you can consider rent reduction or legal action at the local court.[2]
- Are there official forms for complaints or notices?
- Many courts provide forms or guidance online; the central justice portals and laws help prepare the documents.[3]
How-To
- Select a device: look for certification and manufacturer specifications.
- Determine the mounting location: choose bedrooms, corridors and paths of movement.
- If missing: send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline.
- On alarm: warn occupants, ventilate, call 112 if symptoms occur.
- Document date, time, readings and responses for evidentiary purposes.
Help and Support / Resources
- German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
- Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Gesetze im Internet
- Justice Portal: Courts and Forms
