Smoke alarms are mandatory in private residential properties in all German federal states. The relevant regulations are set out in the state building codes of Germany’s 16 federal states. The requirement applies to both new and existing buildings. Saxony is the only federal state where smoke alarms do not have to be retrofitted in existing buildings.
The transitional period for existing buildings in Berlin and Brandenburg ended on 31 December 2020. Since 1 January 2021, smoke alarms have therefore also been mandatory in existing properties in both federal states. The Berlin Building Code, for example, states: “Structures must be arranged, constructed, altered and maintained in such a way as to prevent the outbreak of fire and the spread of fire and smoke, and to ensure that people and animals can be rescued and effective firefighting operations can be carried out in the event of a fire.”
DIN 14676: The Standard for Smoke Alarms in Germany
Smoke alarms are mandatory throughout Germany. As mentioned above, Saxony is the only federal state where smoke alarms do not have to be retrofitted in existing buildings. German smoke alarm systems are based on DIN 14676. This standard regulates the planning, installation, operation and maintenance of smoke alarms and domestic smoke detectors.
Smoke, Heat and Multi-Sensor Alarms for Different Rooms
As a general rule, one smoke alarm is designed to cover a room of approximately 60 square metres. Smoke alarms must be installed in all children’s rooms, bedrooms and living spaces, as well as in corridors that serve as escape or rescue routes from occupied rooms.
Bathrooms, kitchens, garages, attics and basements should not be fitted with conventional smoke alarms. Due to the regular presence of dust, smoke or steam, they would not operate effectively and could trigger false alarms. Heat detectors are more suitable for these areas, as they sound an alarm when the temperature rises rapidly.
Special devices known as multi-sensor alarms can even distinguish between harmless steam in a kitchen and potentially dangerous smoke.
As Long as It Beeps? Smoke Alarms Can Be Stylish Too
Conventional smoke alarms are generally round, standalone devices with a built-in battery, sometimes with a long-life battery. The alarm volume is regulated at 85 dB(A), although there are no statutory requirements regarding the tone or frequency.
In addition to standard models, smoke alarms are now available in a variety of attractive designs. Some manufacturers, such as Pyrexx and Jalo, produce designer models decorated with Swarovski crystals or shaped like moths, making them resemble decorative accessories on the ceiling.
In the age of smart homes, wireless smoke alarm systems can also be interconnected. Alerts can be received via an app even when the occupant is away from home, for example at work or while shopping.
Smoke Alarms in Residential Rooms Belong on the Ceiling
Smoke alarms must be installed on the ceiling, ideally in the centre of the room, because smoke always rises. They should be positioned at least half a metre away from walls, lamps, cupboards, beams and other furnishings. This ensures that smoke can reach the alarm quickly and be detected at an early stage.
Property Owners Must Install Smoke Alarms
The requirement to install smoke alarms applies to both apartments and detached houses. Property owners are responsible for installing them or arranging for their installation, particularly when they do not occupy the property themselves.
Landlords must also ensure that the legal smoke alarm requirements are fulfilled. An annual functional inspection is mandatory. Unless long-life batteries are used, batteries should also be replaced once a year or in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Smoke Alarms Must Remain Operational and Be Serviced Regularly. Who Is Responsible?
According to the Forum Brandrauchprävention e.V., landlords are generally responsible for ensuring that smoke alarms installed by them or by an external service provider remain operational. This includes carrying out regular maintenance.
According to the organisation, this obligation under tenancy law takes precedence over differing provisions concerning responsibility for smoke alarm maintenance in individual state building codes.
Tenants may, however, carry out the maintenance themselves. Where necessary, responsibility for maintenance must be formally transferred from the landlord to the tenant through a contractual agreement. The landlord must ensure that the maintenance is carried out correctly and in accordance with the applicable requirements.
In many cases, external companies service all smoke alarms installed in a household. Landlords may pass the maintenance costs on to tenants as part of the annual operating costs.
