Power Outage: Tenants Prepare in Germany

As a tenant in a high-rise in Germany, you should know how to prepare practically for a power outage. This text explains in plain language which supplies and emergency kits are useful, how to check safety and access to heating and water systems, how to report defects to the landlord and which rights under the Civil Code must be observed^[1]. We provide concrete checklists for flashlights, power banks, water and medication, explain how neighbors can coordinate, and name deadlines for reports and repairs. We also explain which jurisdictions are responsible for rental disputes^[2] and which official forms for termination or complaints are useful^[3], so you remain safe and able to act.

Preparation in High-Rise Buildings

A targeted emergency kit reduces stress. Designate a central place in the apartment or stairwell that is accessible to neighbors. Inform the landlord and building management immediately about failed heating or water supply and document damages with photos.

Emergency Kit Checklist

• Flashlight (tip) and spare batteries.
• Power bank for phone chargers.
• Water reserves (water) for at least 48 hours.
• Medications and important documents in a waterproof pouch.
• Note deadlines (days) for reporting defects to the landlord.

Documentation is central: date, time and exact description help later with claims. Send defect reports by email and additionally by registered mail if possible, or keep receipts of delivery.

Rights and Obligations

Landlords are obliged under the provisions of the Civil Code to maintain the rented property in an appropriate condition. In case of failure of heating or water, rent reductions may be possible; this depends on the extent and duration of the impairment. Use the option to notify defects in writing and set deadlines for repair. In legal disputes, local courts (Amtsgerichte) are usually responsible^[2] and proceedings follow the Code of Civil Procedure.

Forms and Templates

Official templates for defect notifications or termination can be found at authorities and ministries; use these templates as a basis and adapt specific details. Examples:

• Termination letter (template) for formal terminations.
• Defect notification with deadline to the landlord.

What to Do in Prolonged Outages?

Organize neighbor support chains for elderly and mobility-impaired residents. Report prolonged outages again in writing to the landlord and document every communication. If no quick solution occurs, you can consider legal steps; start with a written request to the landlord.

FAQ

What should I do if the elevator gets stuck during a power outage?

Inform the building management and the elevator company's emergency service immediately. Phone numbers should be in your emergency kit; if people are trapped call emergency services.

Can I reduce my rent if heating or lighting fails?

Under certain conditions, yes. The amount depends on the scope of the impairment; give the landlord a written deadline to remedy the issue and document everything.

Which court is responsible for tenancy disputes?

Usually the local district court (Amtsgericht) at the place of residence; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and possibly to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

How-To

1. Create an emergency kit with flashlight, power bank, water, medications and copies of important documents.
2. Report defects in writing to the landlord and set a reasonable deadline for repair.
3. Contact building management, elevator service and emergency services; inform neighbors about vulnerable persons.
4. Document damages with photos, times and witnesses; keep receipts for replacement purchases.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
• Justizportal – Amtsgerichte
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB
2. [2] Justizportal – Amtsgerichte
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Formulare