There were two entrances to the cellar - one was a "regular" one, the other had two heavy door operated by remote control behind a bookcase.

When the cellar (not inc 'apartment') was built, a building inspector came to see it, and it was passed. A year later Elisabeth was dragged down to the 'apartment'. (Fritzl was an electrician, so knew how to wire the place).

He also threatened the downstairs group by saying he would gas them if anything ever happened to him.

Other reports say he was a total tyrant at home. Both 'homes'. His wife had had seven children with him, and had likely long ago learned to not question anything he did.