EV Charging Cable in Courtyard: Tenant Rights Germany

Tenants in Germany often face the question of whether an EV charging cable can be routed through the courtyard or shared areas. This text explains in plain terms what rights and duties tenants and landlords have, which safety and liability issues must be clarified, and how to proceed practically if you need a charging solution. Read the recommended steps, sample phrasing for a written request, and tips on documentation. If an agreement with the landlord is not possible, we show when the local court can be involved and which laws are relevant so you can represent your interests as a tenant in Germany effectively.^[1]

Rights and Duties

As a rule, a tenant may not unilaterally and permanently alter communal areas or lay cables in a way that interferes with escape routes or building systems. The landlord is responsible under tenancy law for maintenance and the safety of the building.^[1] Civil procedure rules for resolving disputes at the local court are found in the ZPO.^[2]

Practical Steps for Tenants

• Send a written request to the landlord with an exact description of the cable route, the outlet used and proposed protections.
• Offer to cover or finance technical adaptations so risks are transparent.
• Attach technical evidence from an electrician (cable cross-section, RCD, load management).
• Check insurance and liability issues: inform your liability insurer and clarify responsibility for damages.
• Consider alternatives: mobile wallbox, public charging points or mounting at a privately accessible parking spot.

If the Landlord Does Not Agree

If no agreement can be reached, tenants can file reasoned requests or push for mutually acceptable technical solutions. For persistent refusal legal action at the local court is possible; a prior mediation or an independent electrician opinion is often advisable. Higher court decisions, e.g. from the Federal Court of Justice, may be consulted for interpretation questions.^[3]

Technical and Safety Requirements

Electrical work must be carried out only by qualified professionals. Ensure approval from the grid operator, use of an RCD, suitable cable routing and documentation of changes in the handover record. For fixed installations it must be clarified whether structural alterations are permanently permitted or must be restored on moving out.

FAQ

Can I lay an extension cable through the courtyard without permission?

Short-term, provisional cables may be tolerated in exceptions, but permanently used lines require landlord consent due to safety and liability issues.

Who pays for a wallbox or supply line?

This can be contractually arranged; tenants often offer to pay costs to obtain landlord consent. A clear written agreement is recommended.

What if the landlord does not respond?

First request in writing with a deadline, then seek legal advice and as a last resort contact the local court.

How-To

1. Step 1: Document the situation (photos, site plan, existing outlets) and note requirements.
2. Step 2: Obtain a quote from a qualified electrician and propose a technical solution.
3. Step 3: Send a written request to the landlord with a 14-day deadline.
4. Step 4: If refused: get legal advice and, if needed, submit documentation to the local court.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB and other laws)
• ZPO — Civil Procedure Code
• Federal Court of Justice — case law on tenancy

1. [1] §535 BGB — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] ZPO — Zivilprozessordnung (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — Decisions on tenancy law (bundesgerichtshof.de)