Documenting Parquet Damage for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, it is important to detect parquet damage early and document it clearly. Good photos, precise dates and a short description help avoid disputes with the landlord or, if necessary, prove to the local court that the damage exists. This guide explains step by step how to assess parquet damage, which deadlines apply, which official forms or letters are relevant and how to store photo evidence correctly. You will also learn when a repair is the landlord's responsibility, when you may be liable yourself and how to use evidence in a rent reduction or lawsuit. Practical examples make the steps easy to follow.
Recognizing and assessing parquet damage
Distinguish between normal wear and specific damage: deep scratches, water damage or swelling are usually treated differently than light wear. Also read the rules on defects and rent reduction in the BGB to better understand your rights and obligations.[1]
Detailed documentation significantly improves your evidentiary position.
Creating photo evidence correctly
Good photos are often the most important evidence. Pay attention to perspective, scale and date proof. Store images in multiple locations and keep a short description for each photo.
- Take photos (photo) from multiple angles, including overview and close-up shots.
- For water damage place a ruler or scale next to the damage to show size.
- Make a photo with a current date (e.g., camera timestamp) and name the file accordingly.
- Backup the original photos to the cloud and an external drive (backup).
- Note time, place and circumstances in a short damage log (document).
Save photos with a date and a clear file name.
What to report — to the landlord and when
Inform the landlord in writing about the damage and attach photo evidence. Briefly state when the damage first occurred and request a confirmation of receipt. In case of disputes, the local court is responsible; rental cases are often heard there first.[2]
- Send the damage report by email and also by letter (form) with proof of receipt.
- Request an inspection appointment if necessary and document that appointment as well.
Report damages in writing and within reasonable time limits.
Preserving evidence for rent reduction and lawsuit
If the damage affects the habitability of the apartment, a rent reduction and other rights may be considered. Keep all messages with the landlord, invoices and findings to support your claims.[1]
- Keep correspondence and photos chronologically for possible court proceedings (court).
- Collect quotes or invoices for repair costs as proof of expenses.
- Before reducing rent, check the legal requirements or seek advice if necessary.
In many cases, a local court decides on tenancy disputes.
Key takeaways
- Photograph damage immediately and record date and circumstances.
- Send a written report to the landlord and secure proof of receipt.
FAQ
- What counts as normal wear on parquet?
- Normal wear typically includes light scratches or dull areas from use; deep cuts, water damage or installation defects are often considered damages.
- How long do I have to report damage?
- Report damage in writing as soon as possible. Late reporting can make it harder to enforce claims.
- Do I need a lawyer for parquet damage?
- Not always. For minor disputes, formal written communication may suffice; for complex cases legal advice can be helpful.
How-To
- Identify the damage and start photo and text documentation.
- Take photos (photo) from multiple perspectives and include a scale.
- Send a written damage report to the landlord and document receipt (form).
- Collect and backup receipts, quotes and communications (backup).
- Observe deadlines and consider next steps such as rent reduction or court action (court).
