Keep Escape Routes Clear: Tenant Safety in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should know how important clear escape routes are in case of fires or other emergencies. This text explains clearly and practically which obligations landlords and tenants have under tenancy law, which laws apply and how you can systematically check whether corridors, staircases and fire doors are clear and functional. The guide includes a simple checklist to tick off, tips for documenting defects and steps you can take if the landlord does not respond. Practical examples show how to set deadlines, which forms are relevant and before which court you can enforce your rights in case of dispute. The aim is that you as a tenant improve your safety and resolve conflicts factually.

Why escape routes matter

Clear escape routes reduce the risk to life and allow rescue services quick access. Blocked corridors, parked bicycles or permanently propped-open fire doors increase the risk for all residents. In many cases, simple checks can determine whether an escape route meets safety requirements.

Who is liable? Duties under tenancy law

Basically, the landlord is obliged to maintain the rented property in a safe condition. This includes functioning corridors, staircases and fire protection equipment in accordance with tenancy law and the relevant provisions of the BGB^[1]. Tenants must avoid obstructing communal areas and report defects.

Checklist to check

• Safe access (safety): corridors and stairs are clear and passable.
• Fire doors (code) can be closed and are not wedged open.
• Lighting and emergency lighting work; report defective items (repair).
• Smoke detectors and alarm systems are present and checked; note serial numbers (record).
• Set deadlines: ask the landlord in writing to remedy within a reasonable period (deadline).

If the landlord does not act

If there is no remedy after the written request, tenants can consider further steps: rent reduction if usability is limited, contacting the building authority for violations of fire protection regulations, or ultimately enforcing obligations in court before the competent local court^[3] under the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure^[2]. Documentation and setting deadlines increase the chances of success.

How-To

1. Document: take photos, note the date and summarise defects in writing.
2. Written request: notify the landlord by registered mail or email and set a deadline (e.g. 14 days).
3. If necessary inform authorities: involve the building supervision or fire safety office.
4. Legal steps: if inactivity continues, seek advice and consider filing a claim at the local court.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is responsible for keeping escape routes clear?

Primarily the landlord bears the duty to secure safety; tenants must not block communal areas and must report defects.

Can I reduce rent if escape routes are blocked?

Under certain conditions yes, if the usability of the apartment is impaired. Careful documentation and setting deadlines are prerequisites.

Which court has jurisdiction in disputes?

In most cases the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; higher instances are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice for matters of principle.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Structure of the German courts — Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection