Tenants: Accessible Evacuation Plan for Old Buildings in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you are entitled to evacuation plans that are accessible for people with disabilities. Especially in older buildings, escape routes and signage are often not barrier-free; still, tenants can request an accessible evacuation plan from the property manager or the responsible building authority. This article explains which rights and deadlines apply, which official forms and proofs are usually required, how to practically prepare an application and which courts or authorities are responsible if an agreement with the landlord cannot be reached. The language is clear and provides concrete steps and evidence tips so tenants can assert their claims more confidently.

What tenants should know

Many tenancy rules are set out in the Civil Code; the landlord's duties for maintenance and usability are regulated there.^[1] For accessible safety measures there is no uniform nationwide form requirement; building authorities or the fire department are often responsible.

• Check deadlines and set dates.
• Prepare a form or a written application.
• Attach evidence: photos, reports, witness statements.
• Contact the building authority and the landlord.

How to submit the application

Write the application clearly: describe the specific barrier, propose a practical solution and attach evidence. If an agreement is not possible, legal steps are available; procedural questions are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2]

Forms and templates

There is no nationwide standard form for an accessible evacuation plan. Common parts of an application include: name and address, exact description of the impairment, proposed changes, photos and possibly medical certificates or inspection reports. A practical sample letter for tenants could read: "I hereby request the preparation of an accessible evacuation plan for the apartment/building at [address]. Specifically affected are [description]. Please inform me by [date] which measures are planned." Send the application in a verifiable way by registered mail or electronically with confirmation of receipt.

FAQ

Who can request an accessible evacuation plan?

Tenants or residents can generally submit a request; representatives or relatives may act on behalf of affected persons. The property manager and the local building authority are usually responsible.

What deadlines apply to processing?

Specific deadlines depend on the municipality and the scope of the measure; set a reasonable deadline in your application and monitor legal timelines.

What to do if the landlord refuses?

Document the refusal in writing, contact the building authority and consider clarifying the matter before the local court; mediation or an order by the authority often helps.

How-To

1. Check deadlines and collect all relevant documents.
2. Draft the application in writing and propose specific measures.
3. Attach evidence: photos, inspection reports, medical certificates if applicable.
4. Submit the application in a verifiable way to the building authority and notify the landlord.
5. If refused, consider legal steps and the jurisdiction of the local court.

Key takeaways

• Document defects and all communications thoroughly.
• Observe deadlines and set appropriate timeframes.
• In disputes, the local court and possibly higher instances are responsible.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)