Installation & HVAC

Commercial buildings in Germany must meet fire safety requirements documented in a fire safety certificate (Brandschutznachweis) as part of the building permit process. Additionally, existing buildings used for commercial purposes, public assembly, or accommodation are subject to periodic fire prevention inspections (Brandverhütungsschau) by the local fire department or fire safety office.The Brandschutznachweis is prepared by a qualified fire protection engineer and submitted with the building application. It demonstrates that the building design complies with fire safety standards in the state building code. The Brandverhütungsschau is conducted on-site every three to six years, depending on the risk level of the facility. Inspectors check escape routes, fire doors, alarm systems, and extinguishing equipment. Deficiencies must be corrected within a set deadline.

Issued by: Building Authority / Fire Department

Before an elevator can be put into service in Germany, it must pass an inspection by an authorised monitoring body (zugelassene Überwachungsstelle, ZÜS) such as TÜV or DEKRA. This applies to all new elevator installations as well as significant modifications to existing systems. The legal basis is the Industrial Safety Regulation (Betriebssicherheitsverordnung, BetrSichV).The ZÜS inspects the elevator's safety systems, structural integrity, and compliance with applicable standards before issuing the operating approval. After commissioning, elevators must undergo recurring inspections: a main inspection every two years and an intermediate inspection in the years between. Each elevator must display an inspection sticker showing the next due date. The operator must also maintain an emergency plan for each system.

Issued by: Approved Inspection Body (ZÜS)

Companies and individuals working with fluorinated greenhouse gases (F-gases), particularly in refrigeration and air conditioning, require certification under EU Regulation 2024/573 (the current F-Gas Regulation, which replaced Regulation 517/2014 in March 2024). This applies to refrigeration technicians, HVAC installers, and maintenance firms that install, service, or decommission systems containing F-gases.Personal certification requires passing an exam at a certification body accredited by DAkkS. The exam covers safe handling, leak checking, recovery, and environmental regulations. In addition, the company itself needs a separate company certification, which requires proof of sufficient certified personnel and appropriate equipment. Certificates must be renewed periodically.

Issued by: Accredited Certification Body

Electricians, gas fitters, and plumbers who work on grid-connected installations in Germany must be registered in the installer directory (Installateurverzeichnis) of the local electricity, gas, or water network operator. Without registration, you may not install, modify, or repair customer systems connected to the supply network. This requirement applies to each network operator's territory where you work.You apply directly with the network operator in your area. Requirements include proof of professional qualifications (typically a master craftsman certificate or equivalent), an employment contract for the responsible specialist, and appropriate liability insurance. Registration follows the guidelines jointly developed by the BDEW (German Association of Energy and Water Industries) and the relevant trade associations. Registration must be renewed periodically, and the network operator may conduct spot checks on your work.

Issued by: Network Operator / Utility Company

If you operate a building with ventilation or air conditioning systems, you are legally required to have them inspected at regular intervals. AC systems with a rated output of more than 12 kW must undergo an energy inspection under the Building Energy Act (Gebäudeenergiegesetz, GEG).You must hire a qualified energy consultant or certified inspector to perform the assessment. The inspection evaluates energy efficiency and identifies potential improvements. Separately, VDI 6022 hygiene inspections are required to ensure indoor air quality. Results must be documented and kept available for building authorities on request.

Issued by: Approved Energy Inspector / Chimney Sweep (Exhaust Systems)