Tenants in Germany: Document Escape Routes

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to keep escape routes in your apartment and building clear and to document incidents systematically. Especially for families in large cities, good documentation reduces stress and helps make quick decisions in an emergency. This text shows practical strategies: how to check safe escape routes, take photos and keep logs, inform neighbors, and store relevant forms securely. The guidance explains simple steps, deadlines and contacts — without legal jargon. At the end you will also find which official authorities in Germany are responsible and which forms can be used so you are well prepared in an emergency. Read on for clear steps.

Why document escape routes?

Keeping escape routes clear protects lives and prevents damage during rescue operations. For tenants, documentation also means having reliable evidence in disputes with the landlord, for example regarding obstructed stairwells or faulty lighting. Rights and obligations of landlords and tenants are regulated in the Civil Code and particularly concern maintenance duties.^[1]

• Take photos with date and time and store them securely.
• Create timestamps and a short log with dates.
• Record witnesses and neighbors, including contact details.
• Send written notices to the landlord and keep copies.
• Collect invoices, repair reports and defect notices.

What to include in the documentation?

Focus on simple, reliable evidence: photos, date stamps, names of witnesses and written communication. Note times and briefly describe the hazard (e.g. blocked stairwell, broken lighting). If you need an official letter, sample termination letters or defect reports can be used; templates and information are available from the competent authorities.^[4]

FAQ

Who is responsible if escape routes are blocked in the building?

Generally the landlord is responsible for safe and accessible escape routes; in case of immediate danger contact the fire department. For legal disputes, local courts (Amtsgerichte) are responsible.

What deadlines apply when I report defects?

Defects should be reported in writing without delay; in escalation, deadlines for remedial action and rent reduction may become relevant. Procedural rules for legal actions are set out in the Code of Civil Procedure.^[2]

What evidence helps in a dispute with the landlord?

Photos, date stamps, written defect reports, receipts for repairs and witness statements are particularly helpful.

How-To

1. Check escape routes and remove hazards immediately and safely.
2. Photograph obstructions and defects from several angles with date information.
3. Send a short defect report to the landlord and send it with proof of delivery.
4. Record witnesses and inform the building manager or caretaker.
5. Document deadlines and act within legal timeframes; in legal escalation the local court may be competent.^[2]

Key Takeaways

• Photos with dates are central pieces of evidence.
• Send defect reports in writing and keep copies.
• Involve neighbors as witnesses when possible.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] BGB §535 ff. — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] ZPO — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [3] Federal Court of Justice — bundesgerichtshof.de
• [4] Federal Ministry of Justice — bmj.de

1. [1] BGB §535 ff. — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] ZPO — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — bundesgerichtshof.de
4. [4] Bundesministerium der Justiz — bmj.de