Tenants: Keep Escape Routes Clear in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to know how to keep escape routes in an old building clear and what rights and obligations apply. Many older buildings have narrow staircases, shared corridors and entryways where items, furniture or bicycles are often stored due to lack of space. Such obstacles can endanger lives in an emergency and often violate fire safety and building regulations. This article explains clearly what steps you as a tenant can take: how to document hazards, inform the landlord, contact the relevant authorities and, if necessary, initiate legal action. All guidance refers to legal foundations in Germany and provides official contact points and form guidance.

Why keeping escape routes clear matters

Clear escape routes are crucial for your safety and that of your neighbors. Blocked staircases or cluttered corridors delay evacuation and hinder emergency services. In many cases there are also violations of fire safety and building regulations that can be enforced by authorities. As a tenant you not only have an interest in a safe home but also options to report hazards and demand remediation.

Tenant rights and obligations in Germany

Landlords are obliged under the German Civil Code to hand over and maintain the rented property in an appropriate condition. If escape routes are impaired by obstructed corridors or stored items, this may constitute a defect that the landlord must remedy^[1]. At the same time tenants must not make structural changes that affect escape routes. In cases of immediate danger you can contact the regulatory office or fire brigade; for legal disputes, local courts are competent.

Practical steps for tenants

1. Photograph the obstacle with date and time as evidence.
2. Inform the landlord in writing and request removal within a clear deadline.
3. Set a reasonable deadline for remedy and document delivery.
4. If there is no response, report the violation to the building supervisory authority or regulatory office and attach your documentation.
5. If dangers persist, consider filing a lawsuit at the local court or seeking an interim injunction.

How to write to the landlord

Write a factual letter describing the obstruction, attach photos, name the danger and set a concrete deadline for removal. Refer to the landlord's maintenance obligations and possible dangers. Keep a copy and proof of delivery. If you are unsure what deadline is reasonable, 7 to 14 days often serves as a guideline depending on urgency.

FAQ

1. Is the landlord allowed to block escape routes with items?

No. Landlords are not allowed to permanently block escape routes as this can violate fire safety and tenancy obligations. Tenants can demand remediation and, if necessary, involve authorities.^[1]

2. Can I remove items myself that block the escape route?

Removing others' items can be risky. First request remediation in writing from the landlord. In case of immediate danger it is permitted to remove imminent hazards, but document everything carefully.

3. Which authority handles violations of fire safety or building regulations?

The local building supervisory authority or regulatory office is usually responsible; for legal disputes the local court is the appropriate contact.^[2]

How-To

1. Document the situation with photos, notes on date and time and witnesses if available.
2. Contact the landlord in writing and demand remedy specifying a concrete deadline.
3. Set a reasonable deadline (e.g. 7–14 days) and announce you will contact authorities if ignored.
4. If necessary file a report with the building supervisory authority or regulatory office and attach your documentation.
5. If no solution follows, have legal steps reviewed by a local court or apply for an interim injunction.

Help and Support

• German Civil Code (BGB)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Case Law
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms & Information

1. [1] BGB §535 – Content and main duties of the tenancy agreement
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Court procedures and measures
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms and legal information