Emergency Plan in Old Buildings: Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in an old building in Germany, a simple, practical emergency plan is important for families. This guide explains step by step which immediate actions to take at home, how to report necessary repairs, whom to call in an emergency and which deadlines apply for notifications. We describe sample forms, documentation and communication channels with the landlord as well as jurisdiction and competent authorities. The goal is to make you able to act, organize protection and preserve your rights as a tenant. The language remains clear and free of legal jargon so that parents with little time can quickly understand and apply the most important steps. At the end you will find templates and official links for Germany.
What to do in an emergency in an old building?
First check the immediate danger (fire, gas smell, water damage). Secure people, call emergency numbers if in danger and take only safe immediate measures.
- Call emergency services (112) for fire or acute danger.
- Call the property manager or landlord (hotline) and report the damage immediately.
- In case of gas smell: open windows, turn off electricity and leave the building.
- For water damage: shut off the main water valve and disconnect electrical devices from the power (repair).
Communication: how and what to report
Document every report in writing and by e-mail, stating date, time, location and description of the damage. Request an acknowledgment of receipt from the landlord and note telephone agreements.
- Report defects in writing (notice): include date, description and photo.
- Keep photos and videos as evidence (evidence) and make the date visible.
- Create a contact list: emergency, property manager, children, neighbors, tradespeople numbers.
- Note deadlines (deadline): when reported and when a response is expected.
Documentation and forms
There is no nationwide standard tenant form for many steps; use the courts' forms and applications for legal proceedings. Draft a defect notice as a formal letter and keep copies of all receipts.
If proceedings occur, procedural rules and forms are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure.[1][2]
Rights, deadlines and competent authorities
As a tenant you have the right to prompt remedy of defects and possibly rent reduction. In disputes, local courts (Amtsgerichte) decide in the first instance; higher instances are the regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice for precedents.[1][3]
- For health hazards: document immediately and inform the public health office (safety).
- For legal escalation: file a claim at the competent local court (court).
- Check rent reduction, but only apply amounts for clear reasons for reduction (approved).
FAQ
- What if the landlord does not respond?
- Send a formal defect notice by registered mail or e-mail with delivery confirmation, document deadlines and seek legal assistance if necessary.
- Can I reduce the rent if heating or water fails?
- With significant impairment, a rent reduction is possible; document the scope and duration of the defect and inform the landlord in writing.
- Where do I turn for an eviction suit?
- Eviction suits are heard at the responsible local court; seek legal counsel immediately and respond to deadlines.
How-To
- Secure the danger situation: get people to safety and call emergency services.
- Inform the landlord/property manager and send a damage description.
- Perform technical immediate measures if safely possible: shut off water, disconnect power.
- Collect photos and receipts and store them in a folder.
- Create a written defect notice with a deadline for remediation.
- If no reaction, consider legal steps and possibly file a claim at the local court.
