Report Gas Smell: Tenant Checklist for Germany

A strong smell of gas in the apartment is an acute safety issue that requires immediate action. As a tenant in Germany you should know how to report the smell correctly, how to document it, and what rights and obligations you have. This guide explains in plain language which steps to take immediately, how to collect evidence, how to inform the landlord and when to involve emergency services or the local court. You get a practical documentation checklist, notes on deadlines and forms, and guidance on which official authorities to contact so your safety is protected and legal steps remain possible later. Use the checklist to prove damage later and to avoid missing deadlines.

Immediate actions

Act quickly and calmly: priority is personal safety and alerting emergency services.

• Call 112 (call) — inform emergency services and evacuate the building.
• Leave the apartment immediately and open windows (safety) — do not operate light switches or use open flames.
• Close the main gas valve if it is safe to do so (entry) — only if you can reach it safely.
• Take photos, note date/time and record details (record) — document location, time and visible damage.
• Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline (notice) — send the defect notice by email or registered mail.^[1]

Documentation and checklist

Good documentation helps later with claims for compensation or rent reduction. Note exact times, who was informed, and keep photos and message histories.

• Record the date and time of each action (record) — e.g. time of smell, emergency call, landlord contact.
• Save emergency and technician contact details (call) — document names and response times.
• Copy defect notices and messages (notice) — keep emails, SMS or registered mail as proof.^[1]
• Collect receipts for expenses (amount) — taxi fares, hotel bills or repair costs.

Rights, duties and possible legal steps

The landlord is obliged under the German Civil Code (BGB) to maintain the rental property in the agreed condition; in case of danger they must take immediate measures.^[1] If the defect persists, tenants may reduce the rent or demand remediation. Court proceedings follow the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) and are usually heard at the local court (Amtsgericht).^[2][3]

FAQ

When can I reduce the rent because of a gas smell?

Rent reduction is possible if the usability of the apartment is significantly impaired. The amount depends on the severity of the impairment and must be assessed individually.^[1]

Does the landlord have to act immediately?

Yes, in case of imminent danger the landlord must act immediately or ensure that emergency services are called. Document your report in writing.

Which court is responsible for rental disputes?

The local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible for first-instance cases; for higher values the regional court (Landgericht) may be competent.^[3]

How-To

1. Note the smell and record time, place and circumstances (record).
2. Call emergency number 112 and inform responders (call).
3. Close the main gas valve if safe and leave the apartment (entry).
4. Inform the landlord in writing, set a deadline and send your documentation (notice).
5. If problems continue, gather evidence and prepare a claim at the local court (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Rights and obligations
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Procedural rules
• Justice portal – Information on courts

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Justizportal – Information on courts