Report Gas Smell: Tenant Checklist Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may feel uncertain when you detect a gas smell. This practical guide explains step by step how to identify gas odors safely, assess hazards and report them correctly so you protect your rights and your neighbors. The instructions show which deadlines and responsibilities apply, what immediate actions are necessary and how to create complete documentation. You will receive a practical checklist and a sample letter you can adapt for landlords, property managers or the responsible control center. If damage or disputes occur, we explain which court has jurisdiction and which sections of the BGB and ZPO are relevant. The guidance is practical and legally sound.

What to do when you smell gas?

Act quickly but calmly. If you smell gas, avoid open flames and ignition sources, do not smoke and do not operate electrical devices. Leave the apartment and warn other residents. In many cases, the emergency number or the local gas emergency service is the correct first contact.

• Ventilate: Open windows and doors fully and leave the building immediately.
• Do not touch switches: Do not use electrical switches, sockets or open flames.
• Call emergency services: For strong odor call fire brigade/112 or the local gas emergency number.
• Inform landlord: Report by phone and in writing and keep documentation.
• Photos and witnesses: Document smell, time and any witnesses.

When to inform the landlord?

The landlord has maintenance and hazard prevention duties under tenancy law, so you should inform them without delay^[1]. Also notify the responsible control center or supplier if there is an immediate danger. Send a written report including date, time, location, observed symptoms and names of witnesses.

For disputes over breaches of duty and claims for damages, the local court (Amtsgericht) is generally competent; civil procedure rules of the ZPO may apply in proceedings^[2][3].

FAQ

What should I do immediately when I smell gas?

Open windows and doors, leave the apartment, do not operate electrical switches, inform fire brigade/emergency number or local gas emergency service and notify the landlord.

Who pays for repairs?

Generally the landlord is responsible for maintenance; exceptions may apply if the tenant caused the issue. Review your communications and receipts before assuming costs.

Can I reduce rent if the gas smell persists?

A rent reduction may be possible for a defect in the rental property. The amount and duration depend on the severity of the impairment and case law; document the defect and report it promptly to the landlord^[1].

How-To

1. Hazard control: If smell is strong, leave immediately and contact emergency services.
2. Notify landlord: Inform by phone and send a written defect notice within 24 hours by email or letter.
3. Use sample letter: Create a template with date, time, description, demand for immediate remedy and a deadline.
4. Documentation: Collect photos, witness names, emergency call records and landlord replies and store securely.
5. Legal remedy: If the defect persists, consider legal steps at the local court and consult on filing claims under the ZPO.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Zuständigkeiten der Gerichte und Verfahrenshinweise — bundesjustizamt.de
4. [4] Decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de