Water damage in Hamm: Tenant struggles against permanent shower problems!

Water damage in Hamm: Tenant struggles against permanent shower problems!

Water damage in an apartment building in Hamm not only significantly affects the quality of life of a tenant, but also raises fundamental questions about the duties of landlords when removing such damage. Gisela Funke, 76 years old, is the person concerned, who is currently trying to cope with the consequences of a water damage that occurred in October 2024. Water initially dripped into her bathroom and kitchen from the ceiling, which led to the LEG, its landlord, quickly reacted with construction dryers and renovation measures.

The necessary work was carried out in November, but the shower cubicle remained removed to relieve the drain pipe. Unfortunately, it was not reinstalled, which puts spark under water while showering. As a result, she avoided showering according to her own statements. This is not only an inconvenience, but also a serious impairment of your quality of life.

reactions and demands

Gisela Funke has already called the LEG hotline 30-40 times to inquire about the status of the repair. The LEG, on the other hand, denies the number of calls and emphasizes that there has been an exchange about the damage. The LEG is currently planning to make the shower temporarily usable again by the end of the week and wants to replace the shower cubicle and the toilet, which could take several weeks.

In response to the long -lasting restrictions, Gisela Funke is granted a rent reduction of around a monthly rent. Since it receives basic security, this rent reduction is directed directly to the social welfare office. The question arises whether Funke and her daughter can stay in their apartment because the rental costs are considered too high.

Legal aspects of water damage

water damage in rental apartments can result in both legal and financial problems. According to § 536 BGB, the tenant has the right to reduce rent, even if the landlord is not to blame. This applies in particular if the damage was caused by third parties. Tenants should immediately inform their landlords about water damage and, if necessary, take legal advice to clarify possible claims and their enforcement.

landlords are legally obliged to act quickly to limit the damage. The comprehensible immediate measures include parking the water supply, switching off the electricity in affected areas and the immediate information of the tenants about the water damage and the planned immediate measures. Delays can lead to higher repair costs and even claims for damages.

The documentation of the damage, for example through photos or records, is of crucial importance for both landlords and tenants. This ensures that the building insurance claims can be asserted. According to anwalt.de the rent reduction can be up to 100 % if the apartment is uninhabitable. Experts recommend securing their own housing objects through household insurance.

The painful case of Gisela Funke is an example of the challenges with which tenants can be confronted, and underlines the need for landlords to take their duties seriously and act quickly. The circumstances show how quickly living in an apartment building can become a burden and make it clear how important open communication between tenant and landlord is in such crisis situations.