Tenant Checklist: Accessible Evacuation Plan in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you have the right to evacuation routes that are safe and usable in an emergency. Especially in older buildings, implementing an accessible evacuation plan can be important when residents have mobility impairments. This article explains in plain language what rights tenants have against landlords, which forms and official bodies are relevant, and how to submit an application — even without a lawyer. Read about deadlines, evidence obligations, possible cost coverage and the route to authorities or court if there is a dispute. Practical checklists, sample letters and notes on the local court, relevant sections in the BGB and official forms will help you act quickly. If possible, collect evidence and photos early and document communication with the landlord.

What you need to know

Landlords are obliged under tenancy law to maintain the rented property in the agreed condition; relevant provisions are found in the Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a^[1]. Procedural matters follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)^[2]. Local courts (Amtsgericht) handle tenancy disputes in the first instance; the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) decides on matters of precedent^[3].

Collect documents and evidence

• Photos and videos (photos/videos) of escape routes, stairwells and bottlenecks
• Documents such as a copy of the tenancy agreement and house rules (document)
• Witness statements and written communication with the landlord (evidence)

Application and forms

There is no nationwide standard form for an accessible evacuation plan; usually you submit an informal written request to the landlord or property manager. If needed, set deadlines and indicate possible court action under the ZPO. For social housing check entitlement to a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) with your municipality.

• Written request (form): Date, description of the problem, requested measure
• Deadline setting (file): Set a concrete deadline for implementation
• Contact details (call): Who is your contact at the administration or caretaker

FAQ

Can I force an accessible evacuation plan as a tenant?

You can request the landlord in writing to create or adjust an evacuation plan; key rules are in the BGB §§ 535–580a and legal action may be possible.

What deadlines apply after reporting a defect?

Set an appropriate deadline for the landlord; what is appropriate depends on the defect (shorter for safety risks). Document the date of the report and any responses.

Do I need a lawyer to submit an application?

Many requests can be made without a lawyer; for complex disputes or impending eviction proceedings legal advice may be useful.

How-To

1. Write a formal request to the landlord describing the issue and the desired measure (form).
2. Collect evidence: photos, witness statements and tenancy agreement copies (evidence).
3. Contact the property manager or social services if assistance with modifications is needed (call).
4. If there is no response, set a deadline and, if necessary, file a claim at the local court (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) on Gesetze-im-Internet
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) on Gesetze-im-Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)