CO Detectors for Tenants in Germany: Family Safety
As a tenant in Germany, you want to protect your family from invisible dangers like carbon monoxide. This guide explains in plain language what rights tenants have, when the landlord is responsible, and how to safely install CO detectors in the apartment. You will receive practical steps for documenting defects, sample notes for written requests to the landlord, and advice on how to react if no quick solution is provided. Pay attention to deadlines and court jurisdiction if legal action becomes necessary.[1]
What Tenants Should Watch For
Before installation or request, check the rental contract and document existing risks (gas heating, stove, connected appliances). Take photos and note date and time. First speak with the landlord and propose possible installation options.
Concrete Checks
- Check whether the rental agreement includes safety obligations or CO detector clauses.
- Note whether the heating or stove shows signs of malfunction.
- Photo documentation: take pictures of affected devices and meters.
- Contact the landlord in writing and request installation or inspection.
What to Do If the Landlord Does Not Respond
If the landlord does not respond within a reasonable time, you can arrange repairs yourself or reduce the rent if habitability is affected. Inform the landlord in writing about planned steps and keep all receipts.
- Set a deadline for the landlord to remedy the defect with a specific date.
- Only commission professional installation with a cost estimate and inform beforehand in writing.
- In case of danger: alert emergency services and evacuate the apartment immediately.
Forms and Authorities
For court actions or formal letters use templates for claims or dunning notices at the competent local court. In the event of impending eviction or legal disputes, the rules of civil procedure apply.[2]
Practical Checklist Before Installation
- Choose location: CO detectors near bedrooms, not directly at stove or fireplace.
- Device type: check wall-mounted or battery-operated units.
- Test batteries and record the installation date.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for the CO detector, tenant or landlord?
- Generally the landlord must ensure safety; he often bears the cost for permanently installed protective measures. Clarify cost responsibility in writing.
- Can the landlord forbid installation?
- A general ban is uncommon. Small, non-intrusive installations (battery-powered) are usually allowed; larger alterations should have approval.
- Where do I go in case of a dispute?
- In conflicts you can file a claim at the local Amtsgericht; many disputes can also be mediated or handled by tenancy courts.
How-To
- Document the issue with photos and date.
- Send a written request to the landlord with a deadline (e.g., 14 days).
- If there is no response, inform the competent local court about possible next steps.
- In case of immediate danger, contact emergency services and leave the apartment.
Help & Support / Resources
- Information on the BGB (tenancy law) at gesetze-im-internet.de
- Rules of civil procedure at gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Court of Justice: information on higher-court decisions
