CO Alarms for Tenants and Families in Germany
Carbon monoxide (CO) is odorless and dangerous — especially for families living in rented homes. As a tenant in Germany you should know what duties landlords have and which immediate steps you can take if a CO alarm sounds or you suspect CO. This guide explains in plain language when an alarm may be required, how to report and document defects correctly, which deadlines apply and which authorities or courts tenants can contact. The advice helps you reduce risks, enforce necessary repairs and use your rights without legal jargon.
Why CO alarms matter
Carbon monoxide is produced by incomplete combustion of gas, oil or wood appliances. For tenants this means: even if heating or stoves are not your direct responsibility, living spaces can become dangerous. A CO alarm warns early about elevated levels and can save lives. Check batteries and device expiry regularly.
Tenant and landlord rights and duties
In principle, landlords are responsible for the usable condition of the rental property (§ 535 BGB)[1]. This includes ensuring the apartment does not present unsafe hazards. If your flat is at risk due to faulty heating or ventilation, landlords must provide remedy. Report defects in writing and demand a deadline for repair. Keep copies and photos as evidence.
What to do when the CO alarm sounds
- Leave the apartment immediately and take children and vulnerable people to fresh air.
- Call emergency services 112 if people show symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or nausea.
- Inform the landlord immediately and document alarm time, device model and any visible readings.
- Have heating systems, gas boilers or fireplaces inspected by a professional and recorded.
Practical steps: report defects and set deadlines
Use a written defect notice to the landlord. Describe the problem, date, time of the alarm and request a remedy deadline. Set a reasonable timeframe (e.g., 7–14 days) and state you will consider further steps (e.g., rent reduction or involving the competent authority) if no action is taken.
- Write the notice factually, with date and signature.
- Attach photos, CO alarm serial number and any medical notes.
- Set a clear deadline to remedy the defect.
If the landlord does not respond
If the landlord does not act within the deadline, tenants have several options: consider rent reduction, contact the public health authority for hazard control, arrange a professional repair and seek reimbursement, or bring a claim before the local court. For court actions, the Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) and tenancy rules apply; usually the local Amtsgericht is the first instance for rental disputes[2].
Which official forms and templates exist?
There is no uniform nationwide form collection specifically for CO cases, but official portals offer templates and guidance for defect notices and filings. Use model letters for defect reports and suit filings available on government portals. For eviction suits and formal court filings, use the application forms of the competent local court or federal service portals[3].
Common mistakes to avoid
- Do not delay reporting — documentation must be timely.
- Retain receipts for medical visits or measurements.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] §535 BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
- [2] Bundesgerichtshof – Decisions and guidance
- [3] Serviceportal Bund – Forms and authority contacts
