Whoever has the damage doesn’t always have to pay. Especially in cases of doubt, tenants should know their rights – as well as their obligations. This can save money.
Clogged pipes, mold, damage to common property or necessary repairs: There are many reasons why tenants and landlords disagree about who has to cover the costs of any damage caused. As a rule, the polluter pays principle applies. This means that the person who caused the damage pays. But this can only be transferred to reality to a limited extent. Sometimes this is caused by force majeure – for example a storm. Or the culprit cannot be clearly identified. It also depends on the location, type and extent of the damage.
Source: Stern
