Power Outage: Tenant Checklist in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, a power outage is not only inconvenient but can affect living quality, safety and spoil food. This guide clearly explains which first steps you as a tenant should take immediately: how to report the outage correctly, which photos and records are important, when to check compensation claims and which deadlines apply. We list contacts, provide practical templates for written notices and explain when legal action or a rent reduction may be possible. At the end you will find a short checklist and answers to frequent questions as well as information on official forms and competent courts in Germany.
What to do during a power outage as a tenant?
Immediate measures
- Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline (notice).
- Call the network operator or emergency hotline and report the fault (contact).
- Check the fuse box and fuses; if you suspect electrical problems, inform a qualified technician (repair).
- Eliminate hazards: avoid open flames and prepare emergency lighting (safety).
- Take photos and note times, which devices are affected (evidence).
- Store valuables and medicines safely; keep refrigerators closed.
How to report correctly
Use a short written defect notification to the landlord: date, time, affected rooms, visible damage, steps taken and a deadline for repair (for example 48 hours). Send the notification by email and by registered mail if possible. Keep a log of all calls and responses.
Rights and obligations after the outage
As a tenant you are entitled to a habitable apartment under tenancy law (BGB §§ 535–536). If the outage lasts longer or the use of the apartment is substantially restricted, rent reduction, compensation or replacement purchases may be possible. Check deadlines and inform the landlord in writing; describe consequences and set a reasonable grace period.[1]
If the landlord does not react
If the landlord remains inactive, document everything carefully and consider legal action; rental disputes are heard at the local court (Amtsgericht), with appeals possible at higher courts.[2] In urgent cases the court may grant interim relief. Observe the Civil Procedure Code rules when preparing lawsuits or applications.
How-To
- Inform the landlord in writing: date, time, description, set a deadline (notice).
- Contact the network operator and report the fault; note the reference number (contact).
- Document damage and lack of supply: photos, videos, times (evidence).
- Hire tradespeople if necessary and keep invoices; check who is liable (repair).
- If the outage persists, consider legal action or file suit at the local court (court).
FAQ
- Can I reduce the rent if the power is out for a long time?
- Yes, if the residential use is substantially impaired, a rent reduction may be possible. The amount and start depend on the individual case; document scope and duration.
- Who pays for spoiled food?
- Damages can, under certain conditions, be claimed as compensation from the landlord or the network operator; secure receipts and report the damage immediately.
- Who do I contact for recurring outages?
- Inform the landlord and the network operator first. For repeated faults, the Federal Network Agency can provide guidance or accept complaints.[3]
