Emergency Plan for Tenants in High-Rises – Germany
As a tenant in a high-rise building in Germany, it is important to be prepared for emergencies. This text explains in practical terms what preparations you can make, which duties landlords have and which rights tenants have in case of impaired habitability or evacuations. You will learn how to keep escape routes clear, have important documents and medicines ready, inform neighbors and take concrete steps in case of power outage, fire or burst pipes. I also explain when local courts or higher courts are responsible, which official forms exist and how to request help from emergency services or authorities. The guidance is general and helps you make quick, safe decisions in everyday life.
Preventive Measures
Prepare your apartment and neighborhood so that quick, safe decisions are possible in an emergency.
- Keep escape routes clear and mark exits.
- Keep important documents (rental agreement, insurance, ID) in a document folder.
- Note emergency numbers and contact information for neighbors and the property management in a visible place.
- Check smoke detectors and fire extinguishers; pay attention to electrical protections.
- Report regular small repairs so that pipes and heating remain reliable.
Rights and Duties of Tenants and Landlords
The landlord must maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for contractual use; this includes safe escape routes and functioning systems.[1] Tenants have the right to report defects and demand necessary repairs; in certain cases a rent reduction may be possible. If an evacuation is ordered or the apartment becomes uninhabitable, both tenancy law and procedural civil law regulate the further procedure.[2]
What to Do in an Acute Damage Event
In case of fire, major burst pipes or risk of collapse, follow the instructions of emergency services. If an evacuation is necessary, ensure the following steps:
- Follow evacuation instructions and leave the building in an orderly manner.
- If possible, take important documents, medicines and your phone with you.
- Report to assembly points or the property management so that help can be coordinated.
- Report damages later and take photos for insurers and as evidence.
Forms and Official Steps
Many situations require official forms or court clarification. Important to tenants are in particular:
- Defect notice to the landlord (in writing, with date and deadline).
- Written power of attorney if someone acts for you before authorities or courts.
- In eviction suits or court proceedings, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; the Code of Civil Procedure governs process rules.[2]
FAQ
- Who is responsible if my high-rise must be evacuated?
- The incident command of the fire department and disaster control coordinates the evacuation on site; legal consequences and claims can later be clarified via property management, insurers and, if necessary, the local court.
- Can I reduce the rent if my apartment is temporarily uninhabitable?
- Yes, for significant defects that reduce the rental value a rent reduction may be possible. Documentation and timely defect notices are decisive.
- Where can I find reliable household emergency advice?
- Detailed recommendations for emergency preparedness are available from the Federal Office of Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK).
How-To
- Check your apartment now: keep escape routes clear, test smoke detectors and pack an emergency bag.
- Create a neighborhood contact list with contacts and agreements for quick assistance.
- Write a formal defect notice to the landlord and set a reasonable deadline.
- In an emergency: call the emergency number, follow instructions of emergency services and go to the assembly point.
Key Takeaways
- Prevention reduces risk and supports neighbors in emergencies.
- Documenting defects is crucial for asserting rights and claims.
