Tenants: Report Gas Smell in Germany — Checklist

What to do if you smell gas?

As a tenant you should never ignore a gas smell. Stay calm, check the situation briefly and act quickly using the following checklist.

• Check safety (safety): If suspected, open windows and avoid ignition sources.
• Call emergency services (call): If the smell is strong or you have symptoms, call 112 immediately and leave the building.
• Inform the landlord (notice): Notify the landlord in writing, include photos and the time of observation.
• Leave the building (move-out): Evacuate affected rooms and warn neighbors.
• Secure evidence (record): Take photos, note times and witnesses for later proof.
• Do not switch anything or smoke (warning): Do not operate electrical switches or use open flames.
• Observe deadlines (time): Report defects promptly; deadlines can be important.

Reporting to landlord and authorities

Inform the landlord immediately in writing and document defects; under the German Civil Code (BGB) the landlord has maintenance duties.^[1]

In disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) usually has first jurisdiction; higher instances are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice.^[2]

FAQ

When should I call the fire brigade for a gas smell?

As soon as you notice a strong gas smell, hissing noises or health symptoms, call 112 immediately and leave the building.

Can I reduce the rent if the landlord does not react?

Yes, a rent reduction may be possible for significant impairment; notify the landlord in writing and document the defect for evidence.

Which courts handle rental disputes?

Typically the local court handles tenancy cases; appeals may be heard by the regional court and, for fundamental questions, the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

How-To

1. Emergency: If you have acute symptoms or the smell is strong, call 112 and evacuate the building immediately.
2. Safety: Open windows, do not operate electrical switches and avoid open flames.
3. Documentation: Take photos, note times and name witnesses.
4. Written report: Send a defect notice to the landlord and confirm receipt by registered mail or email.
5. Evidence preservation: Collect all messages, invoices and medical reports.
6. Consider legal action: If there is no response, consider legal steps and contacting the local court.^[2]

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), § 535 – Pflichten des Vermieters
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Zuständigkeiten und Verfahren
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), § 535 – Pflichten des Vermieters
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Zuständigkeiten und Verfahren
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law