The invention relates to a connecting element (24) for a floor covering (20) consisting of a first part element (26) and a second part element (28), each having connecting openings (34) by which means they can be connected to one another by a connecting means (36). In the assembled state these form a connecting channel (38) in which a connector (40) can be disposed, which connector also has a connecting opening (34) for the connecting means (36), wherein the connector (40) projects laterally from the connecting element (24) in such a manner that it can be inserted into a connecting channel (38) of a neighbouring connecting element (24) and a connecting means (36) can likewise extend there through a second connecting opening (34) so that two connecting means (36) located adjacent to one another can be connected to one another by the connector (40), wherein the connecting means (36) has dimensions such that it does not protrude over a useful area (21) of the floor covering (20) (FIG. 5).