EV Charging at Parking: Tenant Rights Germany
As a tenant in Germany you may want to install a charging station for your electric car at a private parking space. This guide explains in plain language what rights and obligations you have, which technical and safety requirements apply and how to submit formal requests to the landlord. I provide practical steps, useful sample clauses and which courts are responsible in case of disputes. The aim is that as a tenant in Germany you can decide with confidence when to request consent, what costs to expect and how to contest unjustified refusals. I also explain which forms and applications are relevant in court and how to document defects so you can enforce your rights.
What applies to tenants when charging at the parking space?
In principle, tenants in Germany have the right to use the rented property according to tenancy law; modifications to the parking space, such as installing a charging station, usually require the landlord's consent. Contractual and tort law issues are governed by the provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) (§§ 535–580a).[1] Local courts are competent in the first instance; legal actions follow the procedural rules of the ZPO.[4]
Rights, obligations and technical requirements
Landlord consent
Before you have work carried out, you should obtain written consent. Clear sample clauses help define the scope of permission, liability issues and dismantling rules.
- Check contract: Read lease and parking rules carefully (form).
- Clarify costs: Who pays connection, meter and maintenance? Agree payment rules in writing (payment).
- Technology and safety: Installations only by certified electricians, ensure fire protection and grounding (repair).
Operation and billing
Electricity consumption can be billed via a separate meter or a smart metering system. Pay attention to whether electricity is charged as operating costs or billed separately; a clear contractual arrangement prevents later disputes.
If the landlord refuses
A blanket refusal is not always legally binding. Check whether the refusal is factually justified (e.g. safety concerns, structural infeasibility). In case of dispute you can set deadlines in writing and, if necessary, seek legal remedy.
- Send written request: With concrete offer for installation, liability regulation and dismantling (form).
- Set a deadline: Give the landlord a reasonable time to respond (calendar-event).
- Legal action: If parties cannot agree, a claim before the local court may be necessary (court).
FAQ
- Can the landlord generally prohibit the installation?
- No, a general prohibition is only permissible if the landlord's legitimate interests prevail. Often concrete safety or wiring reasons are required; blanket bans can be challengeable.
- Who pays for charging infrastructure?
- This must be contractually regulated. Without agreement, it must be checked whether the installation counts as a modernization measure or whether the tenant bears the costs. Document offers and agreements in writing.
- Which forms do I need in a legal dispute?
- For claims before the local court use the civil procedure complaint forms of the courts; legal advice may be helpful. Pay attention to evidence such as photos, invoices and written requests.
How-To
- Check contract: Read lease and parking rules carefully (form).
- Contact: Inform the landlord in writing and attach technical documentation (support).
- Get quotes: Obtain cost estimates from electricians and keep the receipts (payment).
- Clarify technical details: Have the installation performed only by certified personnel (repair).
- Document: Secure photos, measurements and written confirmations (record).
- Legal remedy: If necessary, file a claim at the competent local court (court).
Key takeaways
- Written agreements protect both sides and prevent later disputes.
- Technical proof and certified installation are crucial for approval.
- Respond promptly to refusals and set reasonable deadlines.
Help and Support / Resources
- Civil Code (BGB) – Laws in Germany
- Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Decisions on tenancy law
