The geometric problem is not fully specified. We assume that the vertical and horizontal arms of the L have the same thickness $d$. (We were not told that the thicknesses are the same.) We suppose also that the $5\times 7$ rectangle referred to is the rectangle embraced by the two arms of the L, but outside the L.
Then if we draw the L shape, the little $d \times d$ square in the lower left corner has area $d^2$, and the rest of the L has area $d(5+7)$. So we obtain the equation $d^2+12d=6.25.$ Rewrite as $d^2+12d-6.25=0$, and solve. The positive root is $1/2$.
Now the perimeter of the L is easy to find. It is $2(7) +2(5)+4(1/2)$.
Remark: Is the above the right interpretation? That is certainly not clear. But the happy fact that the discriminant $(12)^2-(4)(-6.25)$ is a perfect square is evidence of sorts that the interpretation might be the intended one.