In the cold season, snow and ice on sidewalks and streets can often be found. The winter clearance is ensured that these areas remain safe and accessible in order to avoid accidents and injuries. But what to consider?
Legal basis
The legal foundations of the obligation to clear in Germany are anchored in the respective state and local laws as well as in the Road Traffic Regulations (StVO). These regulations can vary depending on the federal state and the municipality, but basically the owners of land or buildings are responsible for freeing sidewalks, access and access to their real estate from snow and ice.
In many cases, landlords transfer the obligation to clear their tenants through appropriate regulations in the rental agreement. In such a case, the tenants are obliged to clear and scatter the sidewalks and entrances to the property of snow and ice. It is therefore important to check the regulations in the rental agreement carefully and, if necessary, to clarify which tasks must be taken over in detail with the landlord.
The scope and period of the duty to clear is usually extended to the entire sidewalk in front of the property in question as well as access and access. The width of the path to be cleared should be measured in such a way that two pedestrians can easily pass each other. The obligation to clear and scatter usually applies to the period between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. in the evening, whereby regulations can apply in some municipalities.
Regulations for smoothness and consequences in the event of non -fulfillment
In the event of smoothing through ice or over -fringing moisture, sprinkling dulling means, such as sand or granules, is required. In many communities, the use of road salt is limited or even forbidden for environmental protection reasons. It is therefore advisable to find out about the local regulations and, if necessary, to use environmentally friendly alternatives.
If the obligation to clear is not properly fulfilled and there is an accident or injury as a result, the person responsible – be it the owner or tenant – can be held liable. This can result in both civil and criminal consequences, such as claims for damages or fines. It is therefore extremely important to take the duty to clear seriously and to ensure a safe and ice -free sidewalk.
Editor finance.net