Tenants: Report Gas Smell in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, a gas smell can be alarming. This text explains in clear language which immediate measures you should take, how to inform your landlord and network operator, and what rights and obligations you have under tenancy law. You will receive practical advice for safe behavior in apartment buildings, including documenting reports and deadlines, and information on steps to take in acute danger. The guide also shows when a local court or other authorities can be involved and which official sources and forms are helpful. The goal is for tenants in Germany to act quickly, reduce risks and enforce their rights confidently. Stay calm.
What to do if you smell gas?
Immediate actions minimize danger and protect neighbors. Proceed systematically: first check whether the smell originates in your apartment, ventilate and do not switch on electrical devices. Inform the emergency services via 112 and leave the apartment if the smell is strong.
React immediately to gas smells and leave the apartment calmly.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate.
- Do not operate electrical switches or use open flames.
- Leave the apartment and call emergency number 112.
- Inform the landlord and network operator and document observations.
Document phone calls and reports in writing with date and time.
Rights and obligations
The landlord must keep the apartment in a contractually agreed condition; hazards such as gas smells fall under the obligation to remedy defects under tenancy law[1]. As a tenant you have the right to report immediate dangers and to take necessary protective measures. In disputes, tenancy claims are usually decided at the local court.
Practical forms and templates:
- Defect report (informal) – describe location, date, time and observed signs; send the report by email and by registered mail if a quick response does not occur.
- Termination letter sample from the BMJ for severe cases (only if the apartment remains uninhabitable)[2] – example: date, damage description, deadline for remedy, notice of further steps.
FAQ
- What do I do first if I smell gas?
- Open windows and doors, leave the apartment, call emergency number 112 and inform the network operator and landlord.
- Must the landlord act immediately?
- Yes. The landlord is obliged to eliminate hazards and ensure safe conditions; in acute danger the tenant may act first to prevent harm.
- Who do I contact if the landlord does not respond?
- Contact the network operator or municipal utilities, inform the fire department in case of danger and document all reports; tenancy legal steps may follow at the local court.
How-To
- Ventilate immediately and avoid open flames.
- Leave the apartment and notify emergency services at 112.
- Inform the landlord and network operator; note time and observations.
- Document reports by email and, if necessary, by registered mail.
- If there is no response, consider legal steps and collect evidence.
Help and Support / Resources
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
- Gesetze im Internet (BGB and laws)
- Federal Network Agency (network operators and energy oversight)
