Keep Escape Routes Clear 2025: Tenants in Germany

Tenants in Germany must keep escape routes clear so people can exit safely in case of fire or other emergencies. Many questions arise, such as who is liable, which items are prohibited and what quick remedies exist. This article explains in plain language the legal duties under German law, practical steps for tenants and how to document correctly if escape routes are blocked. It also outlines which forms and authorities are responsible, how fines may arise and when a conversation with the landlord is sufficient. At the end you will find clear action steps for emergencies and notes on which courts are competent in disputes.

What applies legally?

In principle, tenancy law in the BGB regulates duties of landlords and tenants as well as traffic safety obligations; municipal building and fire regulations may apply for concrete interventions.^[1] In disputes about removal of items or eviction, the local court (Amtsgericht) is often responsible; court procedures follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2]

Tenants' duties

• Inform the landlord in writing within 24 hours if escape routes are blocked.
• Document blockages with date, time and photos as evidence.
• Do not store furniture, boxes or rubbish permanently in corridors or stairwells.
• Report acute hazards immediately to the fire brigade or public order office.

Sanctions and practical steps

Blocked escape routes can be sanctioned as an administrative offence; in some cases authorities allow removal of items or impose fines. Always document the condition and your notifications to the landlord or authorities so that costs and responsibilities can be clarified later.^[3]

What to do in immediate danger?

If there is immediate danger (smoke, blocked escape routes with fire risk), call the emergency number 112 immediately and additionally inform the public order office. Take photos, note witnesses and inform the landlord in writing as soon as the situation allows.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord remove items without notice?

Only in cases of immediate danger or if there is an official order may landlords or authorities act immediately; otherwise, it is usually appropriate to set a deadline in proper form.

What happens with repeated violations?

Repeated blockages can lead to fines, claims for damages or, in extreme cases, termination of the tenancy; the exact legal consequence depends on the individual case.

Which authority handles a legal dispute?

For tenancy disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent in the first instance; procedural matters follow the Code of Civil Procedure.

How-To

1. Document blockages with photos, date and time.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and request removal within a reasonable period.
3. In case of danger: call emergency number 112 or involve the public order office.
4. If the problem persists, consider legal action at the local court.

Key takeaways

• Escape routes must be kept clear at all times.
• Good documentation protects your rights.
• In danger: inform the fire brigade or public order office immediately.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet: § 535 BGB
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] § 535 BGB - Duties of the landlord
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - Procedural rules
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice - Decisions on tenancy law