Section 536c of the German Civil Code obliges a tenant to report a defect in the rented home unverzüglich, without delay. Mold, a broken heating system and water damage are typical cases. Tenants are advised to send the Mängelanzeige, the notice of defects, in writing. A tenant who says nothing must pay the landlord for the damage that results. If the landlord could not repair the defect because it was not reported, the tenant also loses the right to reduce the rent, to claim damages and to terminate without notice.