Emergency Plan for Tenants in Germany (Old Buildings)

As a tenant in an old building in Germany, a practical emergency plan is important because older properties often carry specific risks like heating failure, mold, or narrow escape routes. This guide explains in plain language how to spot hazards at home, develop a simple evacuation plan, run regular drills, and gather essential evidence. It shows which official forms and laws you should know, how to document defects and when court action may become necessary. There are concrete drill steps, templates for defect notices, and pointers to which authorities or courts to contact. The goal is that tenants in Germany act more safely and effectively protect their rights and stay prepared.

Preparation and Emergency Plan

Create a simple checklist for the old building: mark emergency exits, choose an outdoor meeting point and assign tasks (who turns off power, who assists elderly neighbors). Practice the procedure at least once a year with all household members.

• Prepare an evacuation plan with escape routes and a designated meeting point.
• Check heating, electrical and water systems for visible defects and report them in writing.
• Keep copies of the lease, insurance and important forms in a secure place.

Rights, Duties and Official Forms

Your rights as a tenant are based on the BGB^[1]. Many procedures have standard letters and guidance from the Federal Ministry of Justice.^[3] Examples:

• Termination letter (model from the Federal Ministry) — use when you terminate on time or to respond to an unjustified termination.
• Defect notice / rent reduction letter — report damages in writing with a deadline, for example in case of heating failure.

In Disputes: Evidence and Court

If the landlord does not respond, proceedings at the local court may be necessary; the rules for claims are in the ZPO.^[2] Before filing suit, you should collect all evidence.

• Photo documentation: record date, time and descriptions in a log.
• Witnesses: ask neighbors or the caretaker in writing for their observations.
• Contact the local court or an official advisory office early for procedural questions.

How-To

1. Schedule a drill and inform all roommates or building residents.
2. Check emergency exits, radiators and electrical connections together for obvious hazards.
3. Save emergency contacts (fire brigade, building management, landlord) and share them with all household members.
4. Create a short report after the drill with photos and store it safely.

Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do if the heating in an old building fails?

Inform the landlord in writing immediately, document the failure and check whether a rent reduction is possible.^[1]

Do I have to pay for urgently needed repairs myself?

Generally the landlord is responsible for maintenance; in acute danger you may take emergency measures, keep invoices and claim reimbursement.

Who do I contact if there is an eviction lawsuit?

Eviction lawsuits are usually heard at the local court; seek legal advice and present all evidence.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• A simple emergency plan improves safety in old buildings.
• Documentation is crucial for rent reductions and court cases.
• Seek official help from authorities or courts early.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (Bundesministerium der Justiz)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz