Tenants in Germany: Prepare for Power Outages

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to be prepared for a power outage in an older building. Older wiring, missing RCD protection, or unclear responsibilities can quickly lead to safety risks and daily disruptions. This article explains in practical terms which checks you can carry out yourself, which immediate measures help, and when it makes sense to involve authorities or legal steps. The tips are written so you can act without a lawyer, for example how to document damage, inform the landlord, and observe deadlines. We also refer to relevant laws, courts, and official forms so you can enforce your rights in Germany safely and transparently. Read on for practical checklists and sample texts.

What tenants should check

Before intervening: ensure your own safety and that of your family. In older buildings, electrical distributions, fuses, and RCDs are often critical. Check the following points systematically:

• Check the fuse box for tripped breakers and RCDs.
• Note the time and duration of the outage and which sockets and rooms are affected.
• Photograph the fuse box, meter readings, and damaged devices as documentation.
• Check whether neighbors are also affected (building or street issue) or only your apartment.
• Avoid attempting repairs on wiring yourself; instead inform the landlord or a qualified electrician.

Immediate measures in case of power outage

When the lights go out: secure vulnerable persons (e.g. those with medical devices) and prevent hazards like exposed stove burners. Proceed step by step:

• Use candles safely; prefer battery lamps over open flames.
• Disconnect sensitive electronics from the mains to prevent damage when power returns.
• Inform the landlord and, if necessary, the grid operator or emergency service immediately.
• If people are in danger, call emergency services without delay.

Rights and duties

As a tenant, you are entitled to a defect-free apartment and therefore functioning electrics; the basis is tenancy law in the BGB.^[1] Small inspections and reports can be done by you, but serious electrical work must be performed by professionals. If the landlord does not act, rent reduction, extraordinary measures, or claims for damages may be options.^[1]

In escalation: legal actions (such as eviction suits or claims for remedy) follow the rules of civil procedure under the ZPO.^[2] Rental disputes are usually heard in local courts; appeals go to higher courts and precedents to the BGH.^[3]

FAQ

What should I report to my landlord immediately?

Report any power outage and visible damage to wiring or fuses immediately in writing and document date, time and photos.

Can I reduce rent if there is no power?

Yes, a rent reduction may be possible for significant impairment; the amount and conditions depend on BGB rules and case law.^[1]

Who pays for a professional electrician?

Generally the landlord, if the cause lies in the building's electrical system; if the tenant caused the damage, a different rule may apply.

How-To

1. Record date, time and extent of the outage and affected rooms.
2. Photograph fuse box, meter readings and any damages.
3. Contact the landlord in writing immediately and request a deadline for repair.
4. If there is no response, consider rent reduction or advice on legal aid (PKH).^[4]
5. Collect all receipts, witness statements and photos for any further correspondence or legal action.

Help and Support

• BGB — Tenancy rights and obligations
• ZPO — Civil procedure rules
• Federal Court information — BGH
• Forms & legal aid — Federal Ministry of Justice

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1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
2. [2] ZPO — Zivilprozessordnung
3. [3] Informationen zu Gerichten — Bundesgerichtshof
4. [4] Prozesskostenhilfe (PKH) — Bundesministerium der Justiz