Reporting Gas Smell: Tenant Guide Germany 2025
A sudden detectable smell of gas in the flat unsettles many tenants. This practical guide explains step by step how tenants in Germany should react safely, when to call emergency services or inform the network operator, and which legal rights apply under tenancy law. You will receive clear instructions, a sample defect notice, guidance on deadlines and evidence preservation, and emergency contacts. The text cites relevant legal bases, explains the procedure in case of acute danger and describes how to formally report defects or, if necessary, initiate legal action. The aim is that tenants can act quickly, safely and legally correctly without prior legal knowledge. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and official links for further help.
Immediate actions for gas smell
Act calmly but promptly. A strong gas smell can mean immediate danger from explosion or poisoning. Follow these immediate steps:
- Call emergency number 112 and briefly describe the situation
- Evacuate all persons from the flat immediately and warn neighbors
- Open windows and doors, but do not operate electrical switches
- Only close the gas shut-off valve if you are sure how it works
Who must be notified?
Notify in this order: 1) 112 in acute danger; 2) network operator/gas supplier; 3) landlord in writing with a defect notice. Note date, time and the name of the person you spoke with.[3]
- Inform the landlord in writing with a defect notice (no nationwide standard form, see example below)
- Call the network operator or supplier to report the fault
- Inform the fire brigade/112 if there is danger
Rights and deadlines under tenancy law
The landlord is obliged to maintain the rented property in a condition suitable for use. If a dangerous defect such as gas smell occurs, landlords must take immediate measures. Tenants can send a defect notice, set deadlines and act immediately in emergencies. See the BGB for more detailed provisions on landlord and tenant obligations.[1]
If the landlord does not react, you may consider reducing rent or contacting the local court; court procedures follow the rules of the ZPO.[2]
Sample: Defect notice (example text)
An example short defect notice: "I hereby report a smell of gas on [date] at [time] in the flat [address, flat number]. Please arrange an immediate inspection and remedy. Photos and contact details are attached." Send the notice by registered mail or email with read receipt and keep evidence.
Preserve evidence
Document: photos, videos, witnesses, date/time, name of the network operator and call logs. These documents help when communicating with landlord and court.
- Take photos and videos with timestamps
- Keep written correspondence and call logs
- Save registered mail or email receipts
Behaviour in case of dispute or no reaction
If the landlord does not respond, send a second deadline notice with a reasonable period (e.g. 7–14 days) and consider announcing a rent reduction. Continue documenting all steps. If necessary, legal action can be brought at the local court; see the ZPO for procedural rules.[2]
FAQ
- When can I leave the flat because of gas smell?
- You may leave the flat immediately if there is an acute danger; safety takes precedence over contractual issues. Call 112 and inform the network operator.
- Can I reduce the rent if the landlord does not react?
- For significant impairments like gas smell, a rent reduction may be possible; the exact amount depends on the individual case and should be documented.
- Who decides on deadlines or rent reductions in disputes?
- The local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides on tenancy disputes; mandatory rules for lawsuits and procedures are in the ZPO.
How-To
- Call emergency number 112 if there is acute danger
- Evacuate all persons and warn neighbors
- Inform the landlord in writing with a defect notice and set a deadline
- Secure photos, videos and measurements
- Contact the network operator and report the fault
- If no response: collect documents and seek advice at the local court
Help and Support
- Bundesnetzagentur (network operator info and fault reporting)
- Laws: BGB §§ 535–580a (tenancy law)
- Information on the ZPO and court procedures
