EV Charger at Parking Space: Tenant Checklist Germany
As a tenant in Germany you may wonder whether and how you can install or adapt an EV charging point at your parking space when extending a lease. This guide clearly explains your rights and obligations in the tenancy, common clauses in rental contracts, necessary landlord approvals as well as deadlines and technical requirements. You will receive practical steps: how to submit a request, which forms or sample letters are useful, which costs tenants often face and how to document disputes. The guide cites relevant laws (BGB)[1] and the jurisdiction of local courts[2], gives tips for communication with the landlord and shows how tenants can protect their rights day to day.
What tenants need to know
In principle: many structural changes to the parking space, such as mounting a wallbox, require the landlord's consent. First check your rental agreement for clauses on structural changes or parking use and draft a written request. Include technical details, responsible specialist firms and cost estimates.
- Submit a written request to the landlord (form): describe location, technology and costs.
- Secure documentation (document): collect photos, offers and correspondence.
- Clarify costs (rent): who bears installation and running costs?
- Observe deadlines (deadline): set reasonable reply times.
- Check technical requirements (repair): check compatibility, protection and DIN standards.
Legal basis and forms
Key legal bases are found in the German Civil Code (BGB) on tenancy and structural changes and in procedural rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)[1][2]. There is no nationwide standardized form for installing a charging station; in practice a clearly worded written request with technical annex and cost estimate is usually sufficient. If necessary, tenants can seek a duty to tolerate or consider legal action. The competent local court (Amtsgericht) is the first instance for such proceedings.
Practical steps before, during and after installation
- Submit a formal request (form): date, technical details, attach offers.
- Watch reply deadlines (deadline): set a deadline and send reminders if needed.
- Collect receipts (document): keep offers, emails and invoices in order.
- Select a certified installer (repair): obtain proof of an electrical specialist.
- If necessary, consider legal action (court): prepare for filing a claim at the local court.
If the landlord objects
If the landlord refuses, request a written justification and check whether the reasons are legally valid. If the refusal is unjustified, a court may be asked to order tolerance. Documentation is crucial in such cases.
- Organize correspondence and evidence (document): create a clear chronology.
- Seek initial advice (call): contact consumer advice centers or legal counsel.
- Court proceedings as a last resort (court): file a claim at the local court.
FAQ
- Does a tenant always need the landlord's consent for a wallbox?
- Yes, structural changes to the parking space generally require consent; the legal basis is found in the BGB[1].
- Who pays for installation and operation?
- That depends on agreements in the rental contract and individual arrangements; tenants often pay installation costs, while operating costs may be agreed otherwise.
- Where do I turn if the landlord does not respond?
- First send a written reminder, then seek legal advice; for court action the local court is responsible and the ZPO governs the procedure[2].
How-To
- Check the rental contract and gather technical information.
- Submit a written request with offers and technical data by registered mail.
- Collect all replies, offers and invoices in a file.
- Hire a certified electrical installer and clarify insurance/network connection.
- If necessary, prepare documents for a claim and file at the local court.
Help and Support
- Amtsgerichte und Gerichte: Informationen zur Zuständigkeit und Verfahren
- Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§ 535–580a
- Gesetze im Internet: ZPO
