Damage Report for Tenants in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany a damage report after water, fire or burglary may become necessary quickly. This article explains step by step how to report damages correctly, which deadlines and proofs are important and when liability or household insurance applies. I describe practical template forms, name the responsible courts and authorities and show how to document the amount of damage. The aim is to give you clarity so claims can be regulated promptly and disputes with the landlord avoided. The language is simple; technical terms are explained. At the end you will find an FAQ, a how-to with concrete steps and official links to forms and laws for Germany.

What is a damage report?

A damage report is the formal notification of damage to insurers, landlord or responsible authority. For tenancy relationships §§ 535–580a BGB regulate the duties of tenant and landlord^[1]. For serious damages tenants also report to their liability or household insurance.

Key immediate steps after damage

• Document the damage with photos, timestamps and dates.
• Inform the landlord in writing and set a deadline for repair.
• Report to your insurer and have the policy number ready.
• Arrange urgent repairs quickly if there is danger.

Forms and official templates

There is no uniform nationwide template for a damage report to the landlord; a clear written notice with date, damage description, photos and requested measures is usually sufficient. For court proceedings use ZPO forms or complaint templates of the competent local court^[2].

Deadlines and evidence preservation

Tenants should report damages immediately and record deadlines in writing. Document repair costs, cost estimates and communications. In disputes an apartment expert or valuation by specialists may be relevant.

If a legal dispute arises

For tenancy law cases the local court is usually competent in the first instance; appeals go to the regional court, in exceptional cases to the Federal Court of Justice^[3]. Bring complete documentation, contract copies and correspondence when filing a lawsuit.

FAQ

When must I file a damage report as a tenant?

You should report without delay if the use of the apartment is impaired or further damage is imminent.

Who pays for immediate repairs?

In cases of imminent danger the tenant may carry out necessary measures; costs can be claimed later.

Which laws regulate tenancy law?

Tenancy law is mainly found in §§ 535–580a of the BGB.

How-To

1. Immediately photographically document the damage and secure date information.
2. Send a written damage report to landlord and insurer; obtain confirmation of receipt.
3. Contact the insurer for larger damages and register claims.
4. If necessary: file a lawsuit at the local court and submit complete documents.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation is crucial for the regulation of damages.
• Written communications protect your rights vis-à-vis the landlord.

Help and Support / Resources

• Local courts: information on jurisdiction and contact addresses.
• BGB online: legal texts on tenancy law.
• ZPO online: rules for court proceedings.

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 ff. - gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Competent courts: local courts and guidance - bundesgerichtshof.de