Tenants: Classify parquet damage correctly in Germany

As a tenant in Germany it is important to know how to classify parquet damage correctly so that claims against the landlord remain clear. This guide shows in five practical steps how to document damage, distinguish between normal wear and tear and repairable damage and which deadlines and evidence are relevant. You will receive guidance on official forms, how to proceed if the landlord refuses and when going to the local court is sensible. The language is simple so you can exercise your tenant rights more confidently. At the end you will find concrete action steps, sample wordings and links to official authorities in Germany. Concrete examples show how photos, cost estimates and the handover protocol work as evidence and how to observe deadlines under the BGB.

Parquet damage in 5 steps

1. Photos immediately: Take multiple shots from different angles, save timestamps and short descriptions.
2. Assess the damage: Clarify the difference between age-related wear and damage that requires repair.
3. Forms & deadlines: Send a defect notice by registered mail and set a reasonable deadline for repair.
4. Obtain cost estimates: Save two quotes and collect receipts.
5. Dispute & court: If no agreement is possible, check whether the local court needs to be involved.

Important forms include a template defect notice and the BMJ sample termination letter^[3]. Example: You send a defect notice by registered mail and give the landlord 14 days to repair; if missed, you can offset costs or contact the local court^[2]. Also review the relevant provisions in the BGB^[1].

Key takeaways

• Photos with dates are the most important evidence.
• Observe deadlines under the BGB.
• If no agreement is reached, contact the local court.

FAQ

Who pays for parquet damage?

It depends on the cause and fault; the landlord may be obliged for damage repairs, not for normal wear. Check evidence and deadlines.

How do I document the damage correctly?

Photos with date, handover protocol, cost estimates and a written defect notice are central.

When should I involve the local court?

If the landlord does not respond or the cost dispute cannot be resolved amicably, filing at the local court may be necessary.

How-To

1. Step 1: Photograph the damage from multiple angles and note date and time.
2. Step 2: Assess whether it is wear or repairable damage.
3. Step 3: Send a formal defect notice and set a deadline for repair.
4. Step 4: Obtain cost estimates and collect receipts.
5. Step 5: If necessary prepare a claim and contact the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Information on decisions – bundesgerichtshof.de
• Sample forms and guidance – BMJ

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1. [1] BGB §§ 535-580a – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Local court and jurisdiction – bundesgerichtshof.de
3. [3] Sample forms for tenants – BMJ