Tenants: Parquet and Laminate Damage in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, parquet or laminate damage can quickly lead to disputes with your landlord. This guide explains how to document damage properly, which deadlines and duties apply under the BGB, which official forms or proofs are useful, and how to take and secure photos as evidence. I describe practical steps from the first day of damage through the defect notice to possible rent reductions or court resolution at the local court. The language is simple so tenants can understand their rights and remain able to act. At the end you will find notes on competent authorities and official forms. I show how to date photos correctly, take room shots and document damage areas close and far. Use checklists and secure dated messages.

What to do about parquet or laminate damage?

If you discover damage to parquet or laminate as a tenant, document it immediately: date, location, cause (if known) and extent. Photos from multiple angles are particularly important; take close-up shots of damaged areas and overall shots of the room. Also create written notes describing the time and discovery. This documentation serves as evidence in negotiations or in court.^[1]

• Photos: close-ups, wide shots and comparison photos with a scale or object for size reference.
• Date: save date and time in file names or in a separate log file.
• Witnesses: note names and contact details of any witnesses.
• Storage: back up digital copies in at least two locations (cloud and external drive).

Notifying the landlord and deadlines

Notify the landlord in writing about the defect and request remedy. State the damage, attach photos and set a reasonable deadline for repair. If the landlord does not respond, tenants have certain rights under the BGB, such as rent reduction or self-remedy under specific conditions.^[1]

• Send defect notice in writing and document receipt (email with read receipt or registered mail).
• Set a deadline: give the landlord a clear, reasonable period to remedy the defect.
• In case of danger to usability: take emergency measures and document costs.

Rights, rent reduction and legal steps

If the defect is substantial and reduces usability, a rent reduction may be possible; the amount depends on the individual case. In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; higher appeals go to the Landgericht and the Bundesgerichtshof for fundamental legal questions.^[2]

• Rent reduction: assess percentage and start date of entitlement on a case-by-case basis.
• Legal resolution: the local court generally rules on tenancy disputes.
• Claims for damages: if the landlord was negligent, compensation for repairs may be possible.

Forms and official templates

Useful official templates include defect notice forms or termination templates. Use official letters or well-documented templates, clearly describe the defect and attach photo evidence. We list examples with references to the responsible authorities and sources.^[3]

FAQ

How do I properly document parquet or laminate damage?

Photos from several perspectives, date entries, written defect notice to the landlord and saving messages are the most important steps.

Can I reduce the rent?

If usability is substantially impaired, a rent reduction may be possible; the amount depends on the extent of the defect and should be well documented.

Who decides in disputes?

The local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides, the Landgericht handles appeals and the Bundesgerichtshof deals with fundamental legal questions.

How-To

1. Shoot photos: room view, close-up of the damaged area and place a reference object.
2. Send written notice: describe the defect, attach photos and set a deadline for remedy.
3. Monitor deadlines: document response times and note deadlines.
4. Consider legal action: if the landlord refuses, prepare evidence for court.

Key takeaways

• Photo documentation with dates is essential for disputes.
• A written defect notice with a deadline is usually required before further steps.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
• Information on local courts and jurisdiction
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Service and templates

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Local courts (Amtsgericht) – information on jurisdiction
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection – Service and templates