CO Detectors in High-Rises: Protect Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in a high-rise in Germany you should know how CO detectors are properly used. This text explains in plain language which mistakes are common, what duties landlords and tenants have and how to act safely in an emergency. You will learn where detectors should ideally be placed, when the landlord is responsible, how to report defects and which deadlines to observe. Practical steps, relevant laws and contact points are named so you can better protect yourself and preserve your rights. This guide is aimed explicitly at tenants without legal knowledge and gives clear advice on documentation and communication with the landlord. Read on for concrete action steps.

Why correct placement matters

CO (carbon monoxide) is odorless and can arise in apartments especially in high-rises where heating or ventilation systems, chimneys or pipes run. A correctly placed CO detector recognizes danger earlier and increases safety for you and your neighbors. Placement, maintenance and regular function tests are crucial.

Common mistakes

• Detector mounted too low or hidden behind furniture (risk)
• Deadlines for checks or battery replacement not observed (deadline)
• Defects not reported to the landlord in writing (file)
• Missing documentation of alarm signals and photos as evidence (evidence)

Rights and duties

Under German tenancy law, the landlord is generally obliged to provide and maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for contractual use. Specific rules on maintenance and defect remedy are found in the Civil Code (BGB) and related provisions.^[1] In disputes over duties, deadlines or eviction, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply.^[2] For court proceedings, the local district court (Amtsgericht) is often competent in the first instance; higher instances include the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

How to report defects

• Report in writing by email or registered mail and set a deadline for remedy (file)
• Document photos, timestamps and alarm signals (evidence)
• In acute danger, contact emergency services immediately and call the landlord as well (call)

FAQ

Does the landlord have to install CO detectors in high-rises?

Often the landlord is responsible for providing and installing protective detectors; check your rental agreement and local regulations.

Who pays for batteries or checks?

Temporary battery changes may be the tenant's responsibility depending on agreement; major installations and functional maintenance are usually the landlord's duty.

What should I do if an alarm goes off?

Ventilate immediately, remove the danger source if possible, call emergency services in case of acute danger and inform the landlord; document every step.

How-To

1. Ventilate immediately and switch off devices if it is safe to do so (safety)
2. Document the incident with photos, timestamps and notes (evidence)
3. Report defects to the landlord in writing and set a deadline (file)
4. If deadlines pass, consider legal steps; the district court may be competent (court)

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – tenancy rulings

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — Information and decisions