Emergency Plan at Home for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to have a clear emergency plan at home and to systematically document damage, communication and important documents. In an emergency—such as a burst pipe, heating failure or fire—accurate documentation helps with quick repairs, asserting rent reduction and taking legal action against the landlord. This guide explains which evidence you should collect, which deadlines to watch, how to use official forms and which courts or authorities to contact. The guidance is based on German tenancy law and provides practical templates for notifications to the landlord as well as steps to prepare a possible claim or application with authorities.

Why an emergency plan?

A structured emergency plan reduces stress and secures evidence. As a tenant, comprehensive documentation protects your rights, facilitates discussions with the landlord and is often decisive in court.

What to document?

• Photos and videos of damage with date and time.
• Written defect notice to the landlord, by registered mail or e‑mail with confirmation of receipt.
• Receipts for emergency repairs and hotel costs if the apartment is temporarily uninhabitable.
• Record all appointments and deadlines (notifications and set deadlines).

How to document?

Practical tips: If possible, create a digital folder system and a physical file. Note the date, time, names of witnesses and the exact description of the defect. In the defect notice, state the deadline within which the landlord should respond. Legal bases such as the BGB help assess your rights.^[1]

• Save photos/videos and keep original resolution files.
• Document correspondence by e‑mail and registered mail.
• Name witnesses and record contact details.
• Keep receipts for expenses.

Deadlines and legal steps

If the landlord does not react, rent reduction or legal action may follow. Court proceedings are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2] Tenancy disputes are usually heard at the local Amtsgericht; check local jurisdiction.^[3]

Forms and templates

Important forms include written defect notices, termination letters (templates) and, for lawsuits, the complaint form under the ZPO. Use official guidance and templates where available and document service of documents.^[4]

FAQ

What should I document immediately if water is entering the apartment?

Photograph the damage, stop the water source if possible, inform the landlord in writing and note time and witnesses.

Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?

Yes, under certain conditions rent reduction may apply; document the duration and extent of the defect and set a deadline for remediation.^[1]

Which court should I contact for an eviction claim?

Eviction claims and many tenancy disputes are filed at the local Amtsgericht; check local jurisdiction.

How-To

1. Collect photos, videos and the date/time of the incident.
2. Write a formal defect notice to the landlord with a deadline.
3. Contact witnesses and record their details.
4. Keep invoices and receipts.
5. Set deadlines and prepare documents for court.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB: Landlord duties (§§ 535–580a)
• ZPO: Rules for court proceedings
• Amtsgericht: Jurisdiction and contacts (example North Rhine-Westphalia)

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1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a on gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) on gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Justice Portal North Rhine-Westphalia: Information on local courts
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – information and templates