Power Outage in High-Rises: Tenant Tips Germany

As a tenant in a high-rise, you should know how to behave safely during a power outage and how to assert your rights in Germany. This guide clearly explains which immediate measures help, how to reduce medical risks and what duties landlords have. You will learn how to document damage, inform landlords and property management correctly, and which legal bases (e.g. BGB §§ 535–580a)^[1] are relevant. You will also find practical checklists for emergency supplies, notes on elevator operation and tips for handling life-supporting devices. If necessary, you will learn how and when to involve authorities or the local court. Read the checklist and save important phone numbers.

What to do immediately after the outage?

Act calmly and systematically. First check whether only your flat or the whole building is affected. Turn off sensitive devices, secure food in the fridge, and help neighbors who may be at risk.

• Check whether the outage affects only your flat or the entire building.
• Turn off electrical devices to avoid power surges when power returns.
• Notify property management or landlord immediately and note the time and scope of the outage.
• Check elevators and inform neighbors who rely on elevators or medical devices.

Safety and medical devices

If life-supporting medical devices are used in your flat, inform the landlord immediately and, if necessary, arrange emergency support or relocation in coordination with relatives and medical services.

• Inform your doctor or care service about the outage and possible replacement needs.
• Secure batteries, backup devices and alternative power sources like power banks or suitable emergency power solutions.

Documentation and legal aspects

Documentation is crucial: date, time, duration, photos of damage and correspondence with landlord or property management. These documents help with later claims such as rent reduction or compensation. Information on tenancy law can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) and at the competent courts.^[1]

• Keep a written log with times, names of contacts and described consequences.
• Take photos of damaged devices or electronic installations.
• Save all receipts for replacement purchases or repairs as evidence for possible claims.

When to notify landlord and authorities?

Notify the outage to property management/landlord immediately. Additionally, you should inform the grid operator and, if health hazards arise, the responsible authorities. The Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance provides guidance on civil preparedness and behavior during widespread power outages.^[2]

• Inform the landlord in writing (email or registered letter) and keep a copy.
• Contact the regional network operator or energy supplier if they have not been notified.
• If the landlord does not respond, inform the relevant local legal or consumer authority or the local court for tenancy disputes.^[3]

Tenants' rights: rent reduction and compensation

If the use of the flat is restricted (e.g. no light, heating fails), rent reduction may be possible. The legal basis is in the BGB; whether and to what extent a reduction is justified depends on the individual case. Start with a written notice of defect to the landlord and document the impairment comprehensively.

• Send a formal defect notice to the landlord with a deadline for remedy.
• If there is no response, consider rent reduction or legal action in a timely manner.

FAQ

Who is responsible for damages and safety during a building outage?

The landlord is generally obliged to maintain the rented flat in a contractually agreed condition; for communal technical systems, property management or the owner is often responsible.

Can I reduce the rent as a tenant?

Yes, a rent reduction may be possible if habitability is impaired. Duration and extent of the impairment as well as documentation are decisive.

What to do if life-supporting devices fail?

Inform medical personnel, the landlord and, if necessary, emergency services immediately; arrange emergency relocation if no safe power supply is available.

Who can I contact if the landlord does not respond?

Contact advisory services, tenant counseling or the local court responsible for tenancy matters.

How-To

1. Stay calm and check whether the outage affects only your flat.
2. Turn off electrical devices and protect the refrigerator if possible.
3. Inform landlord, property management and grid operator and document times.
4. Assist neighbors, especially the elderly and those dependent on medical devices.
5. Collect photos, receipts and correspondence for potential claims.
6. Seek legal advice or contact the local court if problems persist.

Help and Support / Resources

• BBK – Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance
• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Justice Portal – Information on Courts and Procedures

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535 ff.
2. [2] Federal Office for Civil Protection and Disaster Assistance (BBK)
3. [3] Justice Portal – Information on Courts and Procedures