Parquet & Laminate: Checklist for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to detect parquet and laminate damage early and document it correctly. This checklist explains step by step how to photograph damage, record dates and usage, notify the landlord in writing and set deadlines. You will learn when tenants may expect repairs, when the landlord is responsible and what a formal defect notice looks like. You will also find guidance on possible rent reductions, evidence preservation, and relevant laws such as §§ 535–536 BGB.^[1] In disputes a factual written record and, if necessary, advice from the local court can help.^[2]

What to do about parquet and laminate damage?

If you notice damage: stay calm, secure evidence and document clear steps. Act systematically so you can enforce your rights as a tenant in Germany.

Quick documentation checklist

• Photograph the damage from multiple angles and note the date (evidence).
• Describe the location, extent and likely cause in a short protocol (evidence).
• Notify the landlord in writing and set a clear deadline for repair (notice).
• Check whether it is normal wear or tenant-caused damage (repair).
• Record deadlines for tradespeople and responses (calendar).
• If the landlord does not respond: consider options such as a payment order or legal action (court).
• Keep receipts, invoices and all communications (evidence).

Practical notes

Save photos in original resolution; send the defect notice by registered mail or email with read receipt. Also note whether the damage affects habitability (e.g., trip hazard, moisture), as this affects potential rent reductions.

Important forms and templates

Many steps do not require a statutory form, but more formal measures do:

• Written defect notice: no statutory form, but always send it in writing with photo attachments and a deadline.
• Application for a payment order (Mahnbescheid): check the online payment order procedure or local justice services.^[3]
• Statement of claim at the local court: if out-of-court measures fail, court action under the civil procedure rules may be necessary; check required documents and format.^[2]

Example defect notice: date, location, photo filenames (e.g., Photo1.jpg), brief description, requested deadline (e.g., 14 days) and a request for confirmation of the appointment.

FAQ

Who pays for parquet or laminate damage?

Generally the landlord is responsible for maintenance unless the damage was caused by improper use or intentional damage by the tenant. In disputes the burden of proof regarding the cause is important.^[1]

Can I reduce the rent as a tenant?

A rent reduction is possible if the dwelling's usability is impaired. The legal basis is in the BGB; carefully document the extent and period of the defect and inform the landlord in writing.^[1]

How do I submit a defect notice correctly?

Send it in writing with photos, date, brief description and a clear deadline. If there is no response, consider a payment order or filing at the local court.^[3]

How-To

1. Photograph the damage and create a short dated protocol.
2. Notify the landlord in writing, attach photos and set a deadline (e.g., 14 days).
3. If there is no response: set a grace period and document it.
4. If unresolved: consider a payment order or legal action at the local court.
5. Secure all receipts, invoices and digital communication.

Key Takeaways

• Thorough documentation improves the chance of a successful complaint.
• Always send defect notices in writing with a clear deadline.
• The local court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance for many tenancy disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
• Justizportal of the Federal and State Courts

1. [1] §§ 535–536 BGB (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Online payment order / Justizportal (justiz.de)