Keep Escape Routes Clear: Tenants in Germany

Tenants in Germany should know how to keep escape routes safe and what to do when stairwells, corridors or courtyards are obstructed. This article explains your rights and obligations as a tenant, how to collect evidence, formally report problems and which authorities or courts are responsible. Practical details cover deadlines, required forms and a clear step-by-step approach so you can react quickly in an emergency and enforce safety for yourself and your neighbors.

Why keeping escape routes clear matters

Escape routes must remain free so people can safely leave the building in case of fire or emergency. Landlords are obliged under tenancy law to maintain the rental property and building in a condition suitable for contractual use; this indirectly includes ensuring free access to emergency routes.^[1]

What counts as an escape route?

• Stairwells and corridors that serve as common access to apartments.
• Emergency exits and building entrances intended as escape routes in a fire.
• Items like bikes, boxes or bulky waste left in corridors that restrict passage.

What to do if escape routes are blocked?

Act in stages: first document, inform the landlord and, if necessary, involve authorities. Keep records of date, time and photos; these documents help in later complaints or lawsuits. In immediate danger call the fire brigade immediately.

• Take photos and note date and time.
• Send a written defect notice to the landlord or property manager (email or registered mail).
• If no response, contact the local public order office or fire department for advice.
• If the problem persists, consider filing a lawsuit at the local court and applying for legal aid.

Forms and deadlines

Important forms for tenants include the application for legal aid (Prozesskostenhilfe, PKH) to help cover court costs and, where applicable, an application for initial legal advice. If you file a lawsuit, the Civil Procedure Code governs service and deadlines; timely documentation and submission are crucial.^[2]

FAQ

Who must keep escape routes clear?

Primarily the landlord is responsible for the building's duty of care, but tenants must not permanently block corridors.

How do I document an obstruction correctly?

Record date and time, take at least two photos from different angles and note witnesses' names.

Which authority helps with urgent obstructions?

In immediate danger, call the fire brigade; otherwise contact the local public order office or building authority.

How-To

1. Document evidence by taking photos and recording date and time.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and set a reasonable deadline for remedy (e.g., 14 days).
3. Contact the public order office or fire department if there is no response and present your evidence.
4. If necessary, file a claim at the local court and consider applying for legal aid (PKH).

Help and Support

• BGB §§ 535–580a — Tenancy law (Gesetze im Internet)
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) — Rules for court actions
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Case law and decisions
• Federal Ministry of Justice — Information on legal aid

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet - BGB §535
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet - ZPO
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof - BGH