EV Charging at Parking: Tenant Tips for Germany

As a tenant in Germany you should check the parking space for e-mobility carefully when moving in. Many conflicts can be avoided if you clarify the lease, available sockets, safety and required permissions with the landlord in advance. Record relevant points in writing in the lease or as an addendum, document wiring and meter readings and obtain a professional electrical inspection if necessary. This protects your tenant rights, avoids extra work and creates reliable foundations for later agreements with the landlord.

Check Before Moving In

Before moving in, first check whether the lease contains rules on using the parking space or installing a charging station. Sections on landlord duties and defect remediation are regulated in the BGB^[1]. Also ask whether a separate power connection already exists or whether charging will run via the apartment's electrical system.

• Contract clause on charging station missing or unclear.
• Not informing the landlord in time or failing to obtain written consent.
• No photos or measurement reports documenting existing installations.
• Electrical safety not checked by a qualified professional.

Rights and Obligations

As a tenant you are entitled to contractual use of the parking space; the landlord is obliged to enable safe use and remedy defects^[1]. If there is a dispute about consent or costs, the local Amtsgericht has jurisdiction; procedural rules are governed by the ZPO^[2]. In certain cases there are higher court decisions of the Federal Court of Justice that can serve as guidance^[3].

How-To

1. Arrange a meeting with the landlord within 14 days after moving in to discuss EV charging options.
2. Request written permission or a lease addendum before installing a charging station.
3. Have the electrical system inspected by a certified electrician and obtain a measurement report.
4. Document condition, photos and communications and keep all receipts.
5. If the landlord objects, learn about your rights and consider steps at the local Amtsgericht.

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's permission for a wallbox?

Yes, changes to the electrical system or fixed installations generally require landlord consent. Do not install without written agreement.

Who pays for installation and electricity?

This depends on the agreement: tenants often pay installation costs but can seek compensation or agreements with the landlord; for defects the landlord must act^[1].

Where can I turn in case of dispute?

For rental disputes the local Amtsgericht is responsible; before filing suit consider alternatives like mediation or legal advice.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• Information on courts and jurisdiction — justiz.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de