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In the video: What regulations are there when clearing snow?
Winter service done right: What tenants and homeowners need to consider and how you can protect yourself from expensive liability cases.
The cold season not only brings cozy evenings in front of the fireplace, but also snow and ice on our paths.
But who actually takes care of removing the masses of snow and dangerous black ice from sidewalks etc.? In this article you will find out who has to clear snow and ice in winter and which grits are permitted.
Who has to clear snow from sidewalks and streets?
In Germany, cities and municipalities are responsible for winter service to ensure everyone's safety. But did you know that this duty is sometimes passed on to private property owners?
As a rule, property owners or landlords are responsible for clearing and gritting in front of their own property. This also applies to sidewalks and stairs. According to theGerman Tenants' Associationonly obliged to clear snow if this was expressly agreed in the rental agreement.
Here is a brief overview ofStiftung Warentest:
- Homeowners:If there is black ice, the homeowner is responsible for clearing and gritting, including the sidewalk in front of the house.
- Tenants:If you are obliged to carry out winter maintenance according to the rental agreement, you will have to pay for any damage if you do not clear the property on time. Private liability insurance is essential.
- Pedestrians:When there is black ice, you need to be particularly careful in order to protect yourself and avoid complicity in an accident.
When does snow have to be cleared?
As a rule, from7 a.m. to 8 p.mcleared and scattered, on Sundays and public holidays from 8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m.
If there is constant snowfall, you don't have to constantly shovel and sweep, after all it will snow again straight away. But if the snowfall subsides, you have to get straight to it, according to zdf.de
If there is black ice, however, you must sprinkle immediately.And in exceptional cases it may be necessary to vacate outside of these times.
Snow pushers or snow shovels quickly break if used intensively. So that you are well prepared for the next onset of winter, you can get shovels, salt-free grit and brooms from your hardware storehere at Amazon*.
Where does snow need to be cleared?
The sidewalks in front of your house must be cleared and strewn at least one to one and a half meters wide so that two people can comfortably walk past each other. The entrances to the house entrance, the garbage can or the garage should be at least half a meter wide.
Also read:
Road salt ban: Which gritting material can you use?
Dulling agents such as sand, grit or ash are suitable for sprinkling and are salt-free and loudFederal Environment AgencyThere are also special granules (only buy Blue Angel) that can be used. Road salt, on the other hand, is prohibited for private use in many places or is only permitted in extremely slippery conditions. The reason the salt harms the environment. You can find out what regulations there are for this from the respective municipality.
Important for dog owners: The road salt can harm your dog. Wash the paws after a walk if you had to walk on salted paths. Then rub a paw balm (here at Amazon*) on the paws.
Anyone who does not clear snow from sidewalks is liable in the event of an accident
Important to know: Anyone who fails to comply with their winter service obligations is liable in the event of an accident. Anyone who cannot fulfill the clearing and gritting obligation themselves, for example due to vacation or illness, must provide a replacement and, for example, ask their neighbors for help.
