Prevent Power Outages for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in a shared flat (WG) in Germany, you should know how to protect yourself from prolonged power outages. This article explains in plain terms which preparations are sensible in a shared household, how to assert rights under tenancy law ^[1] and which forms or deadlines may become important. We cover safe emergency supplies, communication with landlords and neighbors, options for rent reduction in the event of persistent outages, and concrete steps in disputes before the local court ^[2]. The tips are tailored to WG situations: task allocation, documenting damage, and contact lists so you can act quickly and according to the law in an emergency. For example, we show what a written defect report looks like, which deadlines apply, and when to involve a lawyer or mediation service. At the end you will find a practical checklist, FAQ and a step-by-step guide for reporting and documentation ^[3].

What to do before a power outage?

Plan a few simple measures with your WG. Assign responsibilities (who checks insurance, who contacts the landlord) and create an easily accessible list with phone numbers and meeting points.

• safety: Prepare an emergency kit with a flashlight, charged power banks, battery radio and a first aid kit.
• time: Stock food and water reserves; note expiry dates and any allergies in the household.
• contacts: Add emergency contacts (landlord, property manager, neighbors, electricity provider) and keep a printed copy in the flat.
• forms: Copy and back up key documents (rental contract, insurance numbers, photos of meter readings).
• evidence: Immediately photograph damage and outage times and note date/time.
• repairs: Only perform short-term repairs or safety measures with the landlord's consent and professionally.

During the power outage

Stay calm and check whether only your flat is affected or the whole neighborhood. Inform your flatmates, the landlord and the electricity provider. If heating or elevator functions are affected, report this immediately to the property manager.

If appliances fail or damage occurs, avoid tampering with electrical systems yourself. Document all damage and report it in writing to the landlord with date, time and evidence.

FAQ

What are my rights during a prolonged power outage?

If there are significant and persistent restrictions, a rent reduction may be possible; the legal basis is in the BGB. Carefully document the duration and extent of the outage.

Is the landlord obliged to provide immediate replacement?

The landlord must maintain the rental property in a condition suitable for use (Section 535 BGB). Specific measures depend on the case; keep written defect notifications ready.

How do I provide evidence of damage and outage times?

Photograph meter readings and affected devices, keep a dated log and collect witness statements; all evidence improves your position in negotiations or court.

How-To

1. time: Check immediately whether the outage affects only the flat.
2. contacts: Inform the electricity provider and property manager and note the time of the report.
3. evidence: Take photos, document meter readings and send a written defect report to the landlord.
4. forms: Use relevant forms or sample letters to record claims in writing.
5. court: If no solution is possible, consider action or mediation at the local court; observe procedural rules of the ZPO.

Help and Support / Resources

• forms: Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ) – forms and templates
• court: Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – information on tenancy law decisions
• contacts: Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) and Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 – Duties of the landlord
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Procedural rules
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) – Forms and templates