Tenant Damage Report Guide in Germany

Tenants in Germany often face quick decisions when property damage occurs: how to report a water leak correctly, which deadlines apply and when personal liability or household insurance covers costs? This guide explains step by step how to draft a legally sound damage report to landlords and insurers, which documents matter and how to respect deadlines for reporting and repairs. Practical examples from large cities show common phrasing and procedures. The goal is that you can enforce your claims promptly, avoid unnecessary costs and find the right official forms and court guidance if needed. The guidance refers to German law (BGB §§ 535–580a)^[1] and points to competent courts such as the local court (Amtsgericht)^[2] and helpful official forms.

Immediate steps after apartment damage

Act promptly, document everything and inform the correct parties. Missing deadlines or evidence will complicate later claims.

• Report the damage in writing to the landlord within 2 working days (within) and set a deadline for repairs.
• Photograph and record evidence (evidence): date, time, affected rooms and visible damage.
• Send a formal damage report (file) by email or registered mail to the landlord and request confirmation of receipt.
• Inform your liability and household insurance by phone (call) and note the claim number.
• Keep invoices, estimates and receipts for possible reimbursements (payment).

Forms, evidence and legal basics

For a successful claim you need clear documentation: date, damaged items, description of the event, photo and video evidence and repair estimates. Include contact details and request a deadline for remediation in your report.

• Insurance claim form (file): include policy name, claim number and a short description.
• Gather evidence (evidence): photos, witness statements, measurements (e.g., moisture readings) and invoices.
• Official templates (file): look for templates for damage reports or reminder letters to support your claim.

In case of dispute: courts and procedures

If a dispute arises, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; for higher claim values the regional court (Landgericht) may handle the case. Procedural rules for eviction and enforcement follow the ZPO^[3]. The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) rules on legal principles in higher instances^[4].

• Consider an out-of-court settlement before filing a lawsuit (court).
• For eviction cases: document all letters and deadlines carefully (file).
• Seek legal advice early or contact local tenant counseling (call).

FAQ

How do I report damage correctly?

Send a written damage report to the landlord, document photos and evidence and inform your insurer.

Which deadlines do I need to observe?

Notify landlord and insurer immediately; set a reasonable remediation deadline and respond to inquiries within the set time frames.

When should I involve the local court?

If out-of-court resolution fails or the matter concerns eviction, rent reduction or compensation claims, the local court can be approached.

How-To

1. Collect all evidence and photos (evidence) and note witnesses and times.
2. Create a written damage report (file) with description, date and repair demand.
3. Contact your insurer by phone (call) and send the documents by email or post.
4. Set deadlines (within) for repairs and document every response.
5. If no solution is reached, consider court action at the local court (court).

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535 (Landlord duties)
• Federal Ministry of Justice: information on courts and forms
• Gesetze im Internet: ZPO (procedural law)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions

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1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §535 (Landlord duties)
2. [2] Bundesministerium der Justiz: information on courts and forms
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet: ZPO (Code of Civil Procedure)
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof: decisions and press releases