Damage Report for Tenants in Germany: Examples
As a tenant in Germany, a timely and correct damage report can be crucial to secure insurance coverage and avoid disputes with your landlord. This guide explains step by step how to document damages, meet deadlines, inform liability or household insurance and check coverage. We provide practical wording and examples for written reports, cite relevant sections of the BGB and explain when you should involve the local court. The aim is that you, as a tenant, understand your rights, collect evidence correctly and are able to act in case of emergency. The language remains simple so that non-lawyers can safely implement the next steps. At the end you will find a sample letter and information about which official forms and courts are responsible.
Report damage correctly as a tenant
When damage occurs, document time and place, take photos and note witnesses. Send a written damage report to your landlord and simultaneously inform your liability or household insurance so coverage can be checked.[1]
The most important rules on tenancy are contained in §§ 535–580a BGB.
- Document the damage immediately: photos, date, time, place and affected rooms.
- Inform the landlord in writing: describe the damage, state the time and ask for confirmation.
- Inform the insurer and check coverage: liability for personal or property damage, household insurance for damaged contents.
Sample wording for a damage report
Dear Mr/Ms [Landlord Name], on [Date] the following damage occurred in the apartment [Address, Room]: [brief description]. I have taken photos and ask for written confirmation of receipt of this report and information on how the damage will be remedied. I have also informed my insurer and request a coverage check. Sincerely, [Your Name]
Send the report preferably by registered mail or with proof of receipt.
FAQ
- When must I, as a tenant, report damage?
- Immediately after discovery. Report significant damage to the landlord in writing immediately and inform your insurer so deadlines and coverage can be checked.
- Who checks coverage with the insurance?
- The respective liability or household insurer checks whether the damage is covered. Keep all receipts, photos and any cost estimates ready.
- When is the local court (Amtsgericht) competent?
- If there is a dispute about damages or eviction, the local court is usually competent; higher instances are the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice for legal questions and precedents.[2]
How-To
- Document the damage: photos, date, time, exact description and witness contact details.
- Write the damage report: name the recipient (landlord), describe the facts, state the request and set a deadline.
- Inform the insurer: provide policy number, damage description and submit evidence for coverage review.
- Collect documents: photos, invoices, cost estimates and all written correspondence.
- In case of dispute: set a deadline, consider legal advice and check filing a claim at the local court.
Key Takeaways
- Documentation matters: photos and dates improve chances of coverage.
- Keep communication in writing and retain proof of sending.
- Notify insurers promptly to avoid missing deadlines.
