Parquet Damage: Tenant Mistakes in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should document parquet damage early and correctly so later disputes about costs and renovations remain transparent. Many tenants make common mistakes such as blurry photos, missing date stamps, or performing repairs themselves before consulting the landlord. This guide explains in clear language which evidence helps, how to make photos technically and legally usable, and which deadlines or legal bases in Germany are important.

What counts as parquet damage?

Different damages have different causes: scratches from furniture, dents from heavy objects, or water damage from leaks. Not every damage is automatically the landlord's responsibility; extent and cause often decide who is liable. Name the cause and timestamp as precisely as possible and note whether the damage may have existed before move-in.

Common tenant mistakes

• Blurry photos (photo) without date or comparison shots.
• Missing before/after documentation (document) in move-in reports.
• No written notification (form) to the landlord describing the issue and setting a deadline.
• Unauthorized repairs (repair) without consent, which complicate later assignment of defects.

Evidence with photos

Photos are often the best proof. Make sure to photograph the entire affected area and close-ups, include a reference (e.g., measuring tape or key) and store the images with dates. Keep original files and avoid unnecessary image editing. Complement photos with a short written description: location, time, suspected cause and witnesses.

1. Take an overall shot of the affected parquet area plus close-ups (photo).
2. Include a measure or everyday item as a size reference (document).
3. Send a written defect notice to the landlord and request confirmation (form). ^[1]

Rights, duties and deadlines

As a tenant you have duties to take care of the rented property, while the landlord has the duty to maintain it under the rules of the German Civil Code (BGB §§ 535–580a)^[2]. For legal actions, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply, for example for claims for eviction or cost reimbursement^[3]. Respond promptly to demands and observe deadlines, otherwise claims may be jeopardized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who pays for parquet repairs?

It depends on cause and fault: for normal wear and tear the landlord usually bears maintenance costs, for damage caused by the tenant the tenant is liable.

How do I document water damage to parquet correctly?

Photograph the extent and source of the water, save files with dates, inform the landlord immediately and document responses in writing.

Can I repair myself if the landlord does not respond?

Only in emergencies; extensive self-repairs without consent can lead to reimbursement claims by the landlord.

How-To

1. Step 1: Photograph the damage from overall and detail perspectives (photo).
2. Step 2: Save original files and add a written description (document).
3. Step 3: Send a defect notice by email or letter and set a reasonable deadline (form).
4. Step 4: If there is no response, consider legal steps and seek advice if necessary (help).

Key Takeaways

• Good photos and written defect notices are essential.
• Avoid large self-repairs without landlord agreement.
• Observe deadlines and legal duties as tenant and landlord.

Help and Support

• [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 – Landlord duties
• [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) §253 – Procedural rules
• [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions and information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Procedural rules
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Court information