CO Detector and Tenants: Protecting Renters in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder whether they need a CO detector in high-rise buildings, who is responsible for installation and inspection, and what rights or duties apply when carbon monoxide levels are elevated. This guide explains in plain language the legal essentials, how CO detectors work, when landlords must inspect, and the immediate steps tenants should take. You will also find notes on inspection intervals, documentation and when to bring a court action if agreement with the landlord is not possible. The aim is to provide tenants with practical steps to keep health and safety in living spaces ensured. At the end we show which legal bases apply and where to find official information and forms. Practical sample texts help with communication with the landlord.
CO Detectors and Tenancy Law in High-Rise Buildings
Under the general obligations to maintain the rented property, landlords must keep the apartment fit for contractual use; relevant provisions are found in the BGB, especially regarding maintenance and rent reduction.[1] In high-rise buildings, additional inspection and maintenance issues can arise because of technical systems and central building services; such requirements may follow from duties to secure safety and from applicable technical rules. If the landlord fails to meet inspection duties, the tenant can notify defects, document them and, if necessary, consider legal action.
What Tenants Should Do
- Report defects in writing (notice)
- Collect photos and measurement reports (evidence)
- Report immediate danger: call emergency number 112 (call)
- Set deadlines if there is no response and document them (deadline)
- Consider legal remedies, e.g. filing suit at the local court (court)
Inspection Duties, Measurement and Technology
Technically, CO detectors should be installed and inspected according to the manufacturer's instructions; central heating or ventilation systems in high-rise buildings require professional maintenance. For information on health hazards from carbon monoxide and technical guidance, official agencies provide preventive measures and warnings.[3] Measurement results should be documented; if thresholds for immediate danger are exceeded, alarm and evacuation take priority.
Forms and Sample Texts
There is no nationwide official form for a defect notice; write a short dated notice including: description of the defect, date/location, request to remedy the defect within a deadline, and a request for written confirmation. Sample text: "I hereby report a dangerous CO leak in apartment X. Please remedy the defect within 7 days and confirm the measures taken in writing." For court proceedings the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply; in many cases a written defect notice is sufficient as a prerequisite for rent reduction or lawsuit.[2]
Frequently Asked Questions
- Must the landlord install CO detectors in high-rise buildings?
- Generally, the landlord is responsible for safety and maintenance; a specific obligation to install detectors may derive from state building codes or contractual agreements. Check your lease and request measures in writing.
- Who inspects CO detectors and how often?
- Manufacturers specify inspection intervals; in multi-unit buildings building systems should be regularly maintained by professionals. Document inspections and request proof if you suspect a defect.
- What to do if CO exposure is suspected?
- Call emergency number 112, leave the apartment and seek medical help. Also inform the landlord in writing and document the time and circumstances.
How-To
- Detect: Check alarms, symptoms or measurements indicating elevated CO levels (safety)
- Alert: In immediate danger call emergency number 112 and inform the landlord (call)
- Report in writing: Send a defect notice with date, description and deadline (notice)
- Document: Collect photos, measurement reports and all messages (evidence)
- Consider legal remedies: Contact the local court or seek legal advice if the landlord remains inactive (court)
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Case Overview
- Federal Environment Agency — Carbon Monoxide Information
