Tenant Evacuation Plan: Accessible in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should know how an accessible evacuation plan works and which funding options, rights and deadlines apply. This leaflet explains in clear language the steps required: from risk and accessibility analysis to simple adaptations in the apartment and coordination with the landlord, neighbors and responsible authorities. You will receive guidance on official funding applications, which forms can be helpful, and how to prepare documentation for tenancy-related actions. The guidance is practical and tailored to typical tenancy situations so you can quickly decide which measures make sense and how to initiate them legally. We explain deadlines, the role of the local court in evictions and give practical tips on communicating with the landlord and securing evidence for possible rent reductions.

Why an accessible evacuation plan matters

An evacuation plan protects residents with mobility limitations as well as visitors. Accessible escape routes, easily reachable emergency contacts and clear responsibilities reduce dangerous situations. As a tenant you have a legitimate interest in safe conditions; in serious defects tenancy law requires the landlord to provide remedies^[1].

What funding exists and how to apply

There are funding programs for measures to improve accessibility (e.g., KfW funding for age-appropriate remodeling). The typical form name is the "KfW grant application 'Age-appropriate Remodeling' (Program 455)". Use the form if you plan, for example, a fixed handrail, barrier-free showers or a ramp solution; as a tenant you usually need the landlord's consent and possibly a subsidy through the program^[3]. Apply for funding before work begins because retroactive applications are often not accepted.

Forms, deadlines and authorities

• KfW grant application "Age-appropriate Remodeling" (Program 455) e28093 check the form before submission and attach sample calculations.
• Application for housing allowance or municipal grants e28093 use if the financing burden is too high.
• Documents for the local court in case of disputes (e.g., correspondence, defect notices, documentation) e28093 tenancy claims refer to the BGB^[1] and procedural rules to the ZPO^[2].

Document all works, cost estimates and consents in writing. Photos with timestamps, emails to the landlord and signed consent declarations are often decisive in later disputes.

Practical steps for tenants

• Documentation: Photograph existing barriers and record date and time.
• Contact: Name a contact person at the landlord and note emergency contacts.
• Access: Check whether keys, locks or stair modifications are required.
• Plan: Create a written evacuation route and post it visibly in the corridor.

How-To

1. Analyze the apartment and escape routes within a few days, prioritizing risks.
2. Submit a funding application (e.g., KfW grant) before starting work and obtain necessary permits.
3. Document defects, cost estimates and communication with the landlord in writing.
4. Coordinate appointments with craftsmen, the landlord and neighbors; clarify liability and access rights in writing.
5. Post the evacuation plan visibly and rehearse the route with affected persons.
6. In case of conflicts, consider submitting documents to the local court; check procedural deadlines and next steps.

FAQ

Who pays for barrier-free adaptations in a rental flat?

Generally the landlord is responsible for maintenance; for modernizations, grants such as KfW can be applied for. As a tenant, request consent in writing and clarify cost-sharing.

Can the landlord forbid necessary adaptations?

The landlord cannot arbitrarily prevent necessary safety measures; often consent is required, but in urgent cases tenancy law provides rights to remedy substantial defects.

What to do if eviction is threatened?

Check deadlines immediately, collect all evidence and seek legal advice; in disputes the local court is competent for first-instance matters.

Help and Support / Resources

• KfW - information on funding programs
• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, ZPO)
• Justice portal - information on local courts

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) e28093 Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) e28093 Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] KfW - information on Age-appropriate Remodeling and grants
4. [4] Justice portal - local courts and responsibilities