EV Charging Costs: Tenant Guide in Germany
Many tenants in Germany wonder how EV charging electricity is fairly and legally billed. Whether a shared wallbox, individual meter or post-billing via service charges: as a tenant you should know your rights, collect receipts and be able to object formally. This guide explains in clear English which billing methods are possible, which forms and deadlines apply and how to respond to errors or unlawful claims. Examples, action steps and pointers to competent authorities and courts help you make a secure decision. No legal background is required; the explanations are understandable and practice-oriented for tenants throughout Germany. At the end you will find a printable checklist as well as sample objection texts and notes on which documents you might present to the local court.
What is EV charging electricity and who pays?
EV charging electricity refers to electrical power used to charge electric vehicles. Whether the costs are borne by the landlord, an individual tenant, or shared via service charges depends on contractual agreements and measurement methods. Legal bases regarding landlord duties can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB), for example regarding maintenance and operating costs[1]. For which service charges are allocable, the Operating Costs Ordinance is relevant[2].
Common billing models
- Individual meter (payment): Separate meter at the parking space, billing directly between user and operator.
- Sharing based on charging logs (payment): Usage is recorded by logs and allocated proportionally.
- Allocation via service charges (notice): Landlord charges costs via the operating costs statement if contractually permitted.
- Flat-rate or lump-sum agreements (document): Agreed flat fees replace individual consumption proofs.
When should tenants object to the bill?
You should object if meter readings are missing, consumption values appear implausible, or cost items are not understandable. Highlight discrepancies in writing and cite concrete examples and figures. In your objection, state the disputed date, the item, and request supporting documents (e.g., meter logs, invoices).
How proceedings run for larger disputes
If an amicable resolution is not possible, civil proceedings may follow. Local courts (Amtsgerichte) handle tenancy disputes in the first instance; appeals go to regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice may decide on precedent[3][4]. Before bringing a claim, assemble all documents: lease, operating costs statement, charging logs, invoices and correspondence with the landlord.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who pays for charging at the building installation?
- It depends on the contractual agreement and metering. Without an explicit agreement, costs cannot be unilaterally allocated via service charges.
- Can the landlord charge EV electricity via operating costs?
- Only if there is a legally valid contractual basis or if the costs are allocable under the Operating Costs Ordinance[2].
- What deadline applies to contest a bill?
- Formal deadlines arise from contractual terms and procedural law; respond promptly and with documentation to secure evidence.
How-To
- Check invoices and meter readings (document) and note discrepancies.
- Observe deadlines (deadline): give the landlord a set period to respond, e.g. 14 days.
- Formal objection (form): send a written complaint by registered mail or email with delivery confirmation.
- If unresolved: prepare a claim or apply for a payment order under the ZPO[3].
- Seek legal advice or a free initial consultation at a local justice or consumer office.
Help and Support
- [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 Landlord duties
- [2] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV)
- [3] Justice portal: information on courts and forms
