Install CO Detector: Tenant Safety in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you should not just install CO detectors but carefully document every alarm, suspicion of carbon monoxide and the actions you take. This guide explains in simple steps how to record location, time, readings, photos and written notices to the landlord, which evidence can be relevant in court and which legal bases apply under the BGB.[1] You will get a practical checklist for immediate documentation, advice on safe behavior during an acute alarm and examples of wording when informing the landlord. The goal is to strengthen your tenant protection and present clear evidence in disputes so problems can be resolved quickly and safely.
Why documentation matters
As a tenant you have rights to a habitable dwelling; the landlord is obliged under the BGB to maintain the property to avoid health hazards.[1] Good documentation shows when a problem occurred, what measures you took yourself and how the landlord responded. This protects you better in rent reductions, claims for damages or eviction suits before the local court.[2]
Checklist: document the CO detector
- Record the location, date and exact time of the alarm and any displayed readings.
- Take clear photos and optionally a short video of the CO detector and affected rooms.
- Note the detector brand, model and serial number as proof of identity.
- Send a written defect notice to the landlord and attach photos and a deadline for remediation.
- Keep payment receipts and invoices in case rent reduction or reimbursement becomes relevant later.
- In case of immediate danger: vacate the apartment and inform emergency services.
- If the landlord does not act, document deadlines and consider legal steps at the local court.
Forms and official templates
For some steps there are official guidelines and templates at the Federal Ministry of Justice. Example: "Kündigungsschreiben Muster des BMJ" can serve as orientation when terminating a lease due to health hazards. Use a template to report defects in writing with a deadline; include date, description of the incident, photos and an appropriate remediation period. A practical example: "I hereby report the defect (strong CO odor, alarm on DD.MM.YYYY, photos attached) and set a 14-day deadline for remediation; please confirm in writing."
What to do in immediate danger?
If you or housemates experience acute symptoms (headache, dizziness, nausea) or the CO detector alarms: go immediately to fresh air, call emergency services and document time and symptoms. Inform the landlord immediately in writing and request an immediate inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who must install the CO detector?
- In many federal states the requirement to install CO detectors is regulated; generally the landlord is responsible for provision and maintenance if required by law or state regulation.[1]
- Can I reduce the rent?
- Rent reduction is possible if the usability of the dwelling is impaired. The amount and duration depend on the individual case; document the defect and give the landlord a deadline for remediation before claiming a reduction or starting court proceedings.[2]
- Which pieces of evidence are most important?
- Photos, videos, readings, written defect notices to the landlord, witness statements and receipts for expenses to avert damage are particularly helpful.
How-To
- Document immediately location, date, time and readings; take photos and note witnesses.
- Write a formal defect notice to the landlord with a deadline and supporting evidence.
- In case of immediate danger: vacate the dwelling and call emergency services; then inform the landlord in writing.
- Keep all receipts, invoices and correspondence separately and securely.
- If the landlord remains inactive, document deadlines and consider court action at the local court or legal advice.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 ff.
- Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) - Legal information
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions on tenancy law
