In winter, every strip of German pavement has someone responsible for it. Towns are responsible first, but local bylaws usually transfer the duty to the owners of the adjoining property. Owners can pass it on to their tenants. According to the owners’ association Haus & Grund Passau, this works only if it is explicitly agreed in the lease, and the house rules alone are not enough. The duty usually runs on weekdays from 7:00 to 20:00. If someone slips because the path was not cleared or gritted, the person responsible can be sued for damages and for compensation for pain and suffering.