Emergency Plan for Tenants in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany you should have a simple emergency plan for your home. This guide explains clearly which steps to take if water, heating or electricity fail, in case of mold or urgent safety issues. It shows what rights and duties you have under tenancy law, lists deadlines for defect notifications and how to document damages, including which official forms you can use. The tips help you make quick decisions, inform the landlord correctly and involve a court or authority if necessary. Practical examples show how to complete forms and which courts are responsible. We also explain how to meet deadlines, collect evidence and which steps to consider in the event of an eviction lawsuit.

What belongs in an emergency plan for tenants?

An emergency plan should be short, practical and easy to access. It contains contact information, quick measures for urgent damages, evidence collection and notes on deadlines. Also record which offices you contact first: landlord, property manager, emergency services and if necessary your local court for legal steps ^[2].

Quick actions for common damages

• Heating failure or frost damage: check thermostat, inform landlord immediately and take photos.
• Water damage: shut off main water supply, document the leak and report immediately.
• Mold infestation: check causes, document ventilation and report the defect quickly.

Documentation and evidence

Document all damages promptly with photos, dates and short notes. Keep a defect log and receipts for emergency repairs. Without clean documentation it will be harder to enforce rights later.

Rights, duties and deadlines

The Civil Code (BGB) governs tenant rights and landlord duties in §§ 535–580a; here you find basics on defect remediation, rent reduction and termination ^[1]. Report defects in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair. Respond to landlord deadlines and keep proof.

If the landlord does not react, a lawsuit at the local court may be necessary; the local court handles many tenancy disputes ^[2].

Forms and templates

Use official forms and template letters, for example for defect notifications or terminations. A common example is the termination letter template from the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection; such templates help to draft safely and comply with legal requirements ^[3].

FAQ

Who pays for emergency repairs?

Generally the landlord bears the costs for necessary maintenance and emergency repairs, provided the damage was not caused by the tenant.

How quickly must I report a defect?

Defects should be reported immediately or within a few days in writing; in case of acute danger, contact by phone and follow up in writing.

Can I reduce the rent if the heating fails?

Yes, a rent reduction may be possible if the usability is significantly impaired; document the scope and duration of the outage.

How-To

1. Photograph the defect immediately and note the time.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for repair.
3. In case of danger contact local emergency services or the property management without delay.
4. Collect invoices and receipts; keep all communication.
5. If necessary, file a claim at the local court or seek legal advice.

Key Takeaways

• Observe deadlines and report defects promptly.
• Document thoroughly: photos, dates, witnesses and receipts.
• Use official templates and forms to avoid formal errors.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – Forms and Info

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Justizportal – Information on courts and responsibilities
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – Templates and Forms