Tenant Emergency Plan at Home: Checklist Germany
As a tenant in Germany you should have a clear emergency plan for home. A simple plan helps you act calmly during power outages, burst pipes, fire or sudden health problems. This guide explains in plain language which preparations are sensible: a checklist for supplies, contacts for tradespeople and emergency services, copies of documents and insurance, and training for emergency behavior. Important: deadlines, reporting duties and quick notification to the landlord or property manager. The steps are tailored to tenants and show how to put rights and obligations into practice. At the end you will find template letters, official forms and authority contacts for quick access. Read on for concrete steps, templates and contacts.
Why an emergency plan is important for tenants
As a tenant you should know the risks in your own flat and set simple procedures. An emergency plan reduces uncertainty, protects health and property, and makes communication with the landlord, property manager or emergency services easier.
In most regions tenants are entitled to basic habitability standards.
Practical checklist for home
- 72-hour supplies (water, food, medication)
- Important phone numbers: emergency, property manager, landlord
- Document copies: ID, rental agreement, insurance
- Prepare defect notice and note deadlines
- Keep tradespeople and emergency contacts ready
- Complete insurance documents and damage reports
Keep copies of important documents stored securely.
Train and rehearse
Practice the routine with all household members: escape routes, a meeting point outside, and who takes which task. Schedule regular short drills and check supplies at least twice a year.
Regular practice reduces stress in real emergencies.
Rights, deadlines and official forms
Tenant rights on maintenance and defect remediation are set out in the BGB, especially §§ 535–580a[1]. If a defect impairs the usability of the flat, rent reduction or compensation may be possible. For court actions and lawsuits, procedural rules of the ZPO apply[2]. Keep all notifications as evidence and document defects with photos and dates.
- Application for legal aid: helpful for initial legal advice if needed.
- Application for court-cost assistance (PKH): covers court fees when necessary, useful before litigation.
- Defect notice / sample letter: template for formally notifying the landlord about damage.
Respond to legal letters within deadlines to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- What should I do first as a tenant in an acute emergency?
- Remain calm, secure yourself and others, call the emergency number if danger is present, and inform the landlord or property manager as soon as possible.
- Do I have to report every damage to the landlord immediately?
- Yes, report damages promptly in writing and with documentation, especially if the use of the flat is restricted; refer to your defect notice and deadlines.
- Which laws regulate tenant duties and rights in case of defects?
- The relevant provisions are found in the German Civil Code (BGB), especially §§ 535–580a, and in civil procedure law for court proceedings.[1][2]
How-To
- Risk analysis: identify emergency scenarios in the flat and building.
- Create checklist: set supplies, contacts, documents and responsibilities.
- Plan rehearsal: schedule a drill and test the procedure.
- Inform landlord: notify formally and with documentation in case of serious defects.
- Check forms: apply for legal aid or PKH if legal help is needed.[3]
Key takeaways
- A simple plan reduces risks and protects residents.
- Deadlines and written notifications are essential for tenants.
- Documentation (photos, messages, receipts) strengthens your case.
Help and Support / Resources
- BGB text on gesetze-im-internet.de
- ZPO text on gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
