Power Outage Preparedness for Tenants in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany it is important to take responsibility for your own safety and prepare for a possible power outage. This guide explains which emergency supplies make sense, how to report defects to the landlord and which authorities and courts are responsible. I provide concrete steps for damage limitation, notes on rent reduction and official forms so you can act quickly in an emergency. The advice is practical and easy to understand so even non-lawyers know when to contact parties such as the local court or consumer protection authority. You will also find an easy-to-use checklist, tips for communicating with the landlord and links to official sources such as the BGB and the ZPO.

What tenants should do now

Immediate measures help limit risks and prepare legal steps.

• Keep an emergency kit ready: flashlight, batteries, power bank, water and basic food supplies.
• Secure electrical devices: keep the refrigerator door closed as much as possible, disconnect sensitive devices from power.
• Photos and documentation: document outages or damage, noting time, date and circumstances.
• Inform the landlord: report defects in writing promptly and set deadlines.
• Inform neighbors: especially support elderly or vulnerable neighbors.
• Emergency call only for danger: call emergency services immediately in case of life-threatening situations.

Rights and obligations in a power outage

Landlords are responsible for maintenance under tenancy law. Relevant regulations can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB)^[1]. If disputes arise, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) governs the legal process^[2]. Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court first; higher instances are the regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH)^[3].

Defect report and official forms

Step by step: how to create a defect report and which forms are useful.

• Defect report to the landlord (written, with photo and date) – example: clear description of the outage and a deadline for repair.
• Complaint form (ZPO) for cases where a judicial decision is required; the form is available from the judiciary.^[4]
• Termination letter (sample) if you intend to end the tenancy; check deadlines and consequences beforehand.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reduce the rent if essential facilities fail due to a power outage?

Possibly yes. A rent reduction may be possible if the usability of the apartment is significantly impaired. Check the requirements in the BGB and document the damage.^[1]

Which court can I turn to if the landlord does not respond?

As a rule the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; appeals go to regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

Which forms do I need for a lawsuit or complaint?

For court proceedings use the complaint form under the ZPO; defect reports to the landlord should be made in writing and include evidence.^[2]

How-To

1. Create an emergency checklist for your apartment and check supplies.
2. Document outage times, damage and inform the landlord in writing.
3. Collect contacts: utility provider, property management, neighbors and local court.
4. If necessary: file a complaint or reports with the competent authority.
5. Keep deadlines in view and respond promptly to correspondence.

Help and Support

• German Civil Code (BGB) §535 – Landlord duties
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Court proceedings
• Federal Court of Justice – Rental law decisions

1. [1] BGB §535 – Pflichten des Vermieters
2. [2] ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Mietrechtliche Entscheidungen
4. [4] Justiz – Formulare und Gerichtsinformationen