Vonovia, Data Privacy, and Smart Smoke Detectors: What You Need to Know
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Key Points:
- Vonovia installs “Multisensor Plus” smoke detectors, measuring smoke, temperature, humidity, and carbon monoxide
- Data privacy concerns arise from collecting room climate data
- Potential tenant costs: small monthly rent increase for installation
- Legal disputes possible if tenants refuse devices
- Business relevance: DPOs and CTOs should monitor GDPR implications
Vonovia, Germany’s largest residential property company, has recently rolled out “Multisensor Plus” smoke detectors. These devices measure not only smoke but also temperature, humidity, and carbon monoxide. For business leaders, especially data protection officers, this raises an important question: what are the privacy implications and compliance risks associated with these smart devices?
Table of Contents:
What Are “Multisensor Plus” Smoke Detectors?
The “Multisensor Plus” smoke detectors from Techem are modern devices that go beyond traditional smoke detection. They also measure:
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Carbon monoxide
These data can be viewed in real time through the “Mein Vonovia” app, but only with the explicit consent of the tenants.
Privacy concerns: Are indoor climate data considered personal data?
The collection of indoor climate data raises data protection questions. Even though Vonovia emphasizes that no microphones or cameras are installed, the collected data can reveal insights into tenants’ behavior. Examples include:
- Frequency of ventilation
- Room usage patterns
- Heating preferences
This type of data can be considered personal data under GDPR, and improper handling can lead to compliance issues.
Real Case Study: How a Tenant in Dortmund Responded
In spring 2025, Vonovia announced the installation of the new multisensor smoke detectors in the Dortmund district of Mengede. This came with a monthly surcharge of €3.42 per apartment, even though the existing smoke detectors were still functional.
Tenant Medea Labudde felt disadvantaged and stated clearly:
“For me, this is just a money-making scheme; I see no need for it.”
Supported by the Dortmund Tenants’ Association, Labudde and other residents formally objected to the measure. The association raised concerns not only about the questionable legitimacy of passing these costs onto tenants but also about the privacy risks of the new devices.
Markus Roeser from the Tenants’ Association emphasized:
“If I don’t want these devices installed in my home, I should object in advance. Tenants should assert their data protection concerns.”
This case shows that tenants do have options, such as filing a formal objection and seeking legal advice.
Costs and Legal Considerations
The installation of the “Multisensor Plus” smoke detectors can be associated with a monthly rent increase of around 6 euros. Vonovia argues that this constitutes a modernization that justifies passing the cost on to tenants. Tenant associations, however, view this critically and question whether the new devices actually represent an improvement or merely generate additional costs.
Business Implications
For companies, particularly those handling tenant or client data, it is essential to:
- Verify lawful data processing under GDPR
- Ensure tenant transparency and consent
- Document data usage and storage practices
- Monitor regulatory updates for compliance risks
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Do tenants have to accept the new smoke detector?
A: No, tenants can object. Some disputes may escalate legally, but consent is required for data collection.
Q: Are my data collected without consent?
A: No. Explicit consent is mandatory for all data collection and app use.
Q: Can the “Mein Vonovia” app be used without sharing room data?
A: Yes, some app functions work without transmitting climate data.
Q: What happens to my data?
A: Vonovia claims all data is securely stored and not shared with third parties.
Q: How can tenants revoke consent?
A: Consent can be revoked anytime via the app or in writing.
Important: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information provided here is no substitute for personalized legal advice from a data protection officer or an attorney. We do not guarantee that the information provided is up to date, complete, or accurate. Any actions taken on the basis of the information contained in this article are at your own risk. We recommend that you always consult a data protection officer or an attorney with any legal questions or problems.