Check CO Alarms: Tenant Safety in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, it is especially important for families to regularly check CO alarms and respond correctly in emergencies. This practical guide provides simple, step-by-step instructions for checking batteries, performing function tests, and documenting measurements. You will learn when to inform your landlord, which forms and deadlines are relevant, and which authorities are responsible. The text also explains your rights under German tenancy law and lists official sources for further information. The aim is to give you clear action steps so you can increase safety in your home and act in a legally secure manner in case of disruptions. We also show how to document an alarm, which emergency numbers apply, and recommended steps in case of health danger.
What tenants in Germany should know about CO alarms
Landlords are obliged to hand over and maintain rented property in an appropriate condition; this also includes the safety of heating and gas systems under the rules of the BGB.[1] Often the tenancy agreement regulates who is responsible for installation and maintenance of CO alarms. If the alarm is missing or not working, you should document the problem in writing and inform the landlord immediately.
Practical check: Inspect CO alarm (summary)
- Check the power supply and battery level; many devices have a test indicator or LED.
- Press the test button according to the manual at least once a month.
- Record the date and result of each test as a photo or short log.
- If the alarm beeps or malfunctions occur: open windows, ventilate rooms and, if necessary, call emergency services.
If the alarm sounds
Remain calm, leave the apartment immediately and move everyone to a safe location. Call emergency services if there are health complaints and inform the landlord immediately in writing about the incident. Note time, symptoms and measures taken; this helps with later claims or insurance matters.
Rights, forms and deadlines
If safety devices are missing or do not work, a rent reduction or a request for defect rectification may be justified; the legal basis can be found in the BGB.[1] For terminations, reminders or formal letters, sample templates from the Federal Ministry of Justice can be helpful, such as a termination letter or a defect notification template.[4] Pay attention to deadlines for remedial action and the possibility to take measures yourself in emergencies and claim costs from the landlord if appropriate.
Which court has jurisdiction?
Tenancy disputes, such as termination or eviction, are heard in the first instance by the competent local court (Amtsgericht); higher instances include the Landgericht and, for fundamental questions, the Federal Court of Justice.[2]
FAQ
- Who is responsible for CO alarms: tenant or landlord?
- It depends on the tenancy agreement and regional practice; frequently the landlord bears the acquisition duty, and maintenance can be contractually regulated. Always document agreements in writing.
- May I replace a defective alarm myself?
- You can act in emergencies but should report repair or replacement to the landlord and keep receipts to claim costs.
- What deadlines apply for defect notifications?
- Defects should be reported without delay; for further legal steps, the deadlines of civil procedure and tenancy law that apply nationally should be observed.[2]
How-To
- Check batteries and replace them at least once a year or when a warning signal appears.
- Perform monthly function tests with the test button and document the date and result.
- Inform the landlord in writing if the alarm is missing or not functioning correctly.
- When the alarm sounds: leave the apartment, call emergency services if there are symptoms, and document the incident.
Help and Support / Resources
- German Environment Agency - Information on CO
- Gesetze im Internet - BGB, ZPO
- Federal Ministry of Justice - Sample letters and guidance
