Check Building Electricity for Tenants in Germany 2025

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to check the building electricity in a multi-unit house because it is often hidden in the service charge statement. This checklist explains in plain language how to check meter readings, the distribution cabinet and billing items, which documents are important and when you can file an objection. You will learn how to request consumption documents, recognize typical errors when allocating building electricity and which deadlines apply for objections. The guide references relevant sections of the BGB^[1], the Operating Costs Regulation (BetrKV)^[2] and the Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)^[3], and provides notes on enforcement under the ZPO^[4]. The goal is to give you clear steps so you can trace electricity costs in the bill and correct them if necessary.

How to check building electricity

Work systematically: collect documents, compare items in the bill and document anomalies. Record all meter readings and take photos of the distribution cabinet and meter displays.

• Document meter readings and take photos (document).
• Check the service charge item "building electricity" and compare amounts (payment).
• Inspect the distribution cabinet for irregularities and defects; report repair needs if necessary (repair).
• Request written documents and forms: billing records, meter readings, consumption proofs (form).
• Observe deadlines: submit objections or appeals in time (deadline).
• If there is a dispute, consider whether court action at the competent local court is appropriate (court).^[4]

If you discover ambiguities, request a detailed breakdown of operating costs and compare them with your own meter readings. Many errors arise when building electricity is allocated across multiple apartments; precise documentation helps.

FAQ

How do I find building electricity in my service charge statement?

Building electricity usually appears as a separate item under operating costs; check the label and assigned costs, and request billing documents from the landlord.

What deadlines do I have to object to the bill?

Typically you should act within two to twelve months; check the specific deadlines on your bill and act quickly, as courts apply strict limitation periods.

Where do I turn if the landlord does not respond?

Start with a written request; if there is no response, a lawsuit at the competent local court can be considered and legal advice may be useful.

How-To

1. Read the meter, document it in writing and take photos (document).
2. Request documents in writing: detailed service charge statement and distribution diagrams (form).
3. Compare billing items: check consumption and allocated amounts (payment).
4. Check deadlines and file objections in due time if necessary (deadline).
5. For persistent disputes, consider contacting the competent local court and contemplating legal action (court).^[4]

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 ff. – Rights and duties in tenancy agreements
• Operating Costs Regulation (BetrKV)
• Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
• Information on local courts (example state)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §535 ff.
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet – Heizkostenverordnung (HeizKV)
4. [4] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)