Tenant Checklist Germany: Sealants & Damp
As a tenant in Germany, you should pay special attention to sealant joints and possible damp damage before signing. Damaged or rotten sealants are common causes of mold and water damage that can later lead to disputes with the landlord. This guide explains step by step how to inspect joints, photograph defects, and which points must be recorded in the handover protocol. You will learn which deadlines and forms are relevant, how to demand appropriate repairs and when a rent reduction is possible. With the attached checklist you keep track and protect your rights as a tenant in Germany.
Why inspect sealant joints?
Defective sealant joints allow water to enter and promote mold growth. Landlords are obligated to maintain the property; the legal basis is in the BGB.[1] Early assessment helps avoid health hazards and high repair costs.
Keep all photos and correspondence stored securely.
Step-by-step checklist
- Visually inspect joints: photograph cracks, gaps or discolored or missing sealant (photo).
- Document defects systematically: record date, location and multiple photos as backups (photo).
- Monitor damp spots: recheck within days and note any measurements (within days).
- Notify the landlord in writing, set a deadline and send by registered mail or email with confirmation (form).
- Handover protocol: list all defects, attach photos and obtain the landlord's signature (document).
- If there is no response: consider legal steps and note the jurisdiction of the local court (court).
Detailed documentation increases your chances of success in disputes.
Forms and deadlines
For written defect notices and terminations there are official templates and guidance. If needed, use official forms from the Federal Ministry of Justice, for example for termination letters or correspondence with the landlord: BMJ forms overview[3]. Set a reasonable deadline for repair, typically 14 days depending on urgency.
If a dispute arises
If escalation occurs, tenancy disputes are initially decided by the competent local court; procedural rules are in the ZPO.[2] For legal questions or relevant precedents, decisions of the Federal Court of Justice may be important.[4]
Respond to legal deadlines and notices to avoid losing rights.
FAQ
- When can I reduce the rent because of damp walls?
- If living quality is significantly impaired by dampness, a rent reduction may be possible. Document the extent and duration of the defect and inform the landlord in writing.
- What belongs in the handover protocol?
- All visible defects, exact locations, date and attached photos. Have the landlord sign the protocol and request a copy.
- What deadline should I set for the landlord?
- A reasonable deadline depends on the defect; for water ingress or mold 7–14 days are common, otherwise 14–30 days. State the reason and requested measures.
How-To
- Check: visually inspect all joints and affected wall areas (inspect).
- Document: take photos, note dates and prepare brief descriptions as evidence (photo).
- Notify: send a written defect notice to the landlord and set a deadline (form).
- Observe the deadline: recheck within the set time and send proof if necessary (within days).
- Court review: if no remedy occurs, consider legal steps and prepare documents for the local court (court).
Key Takeaways
- Photograph every defect immediately and keep copies.
- Send written notices with clear deadlines.
- In disputes the local court is the first instance for tenancy law.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Full text
- Federal Ministry of Justice – Forms
- Federal Court of Justice – Decisions
