EV Charging at Parking Spots: Tips for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany, especially people living in shared flats, want to install an EV charging point at their parking spot. Common mistakes include not coordinating with the landlord, unclear cost allocation, or unsafe electrical work. This guide explains in plain language how tenants can check their rights, obtain necessary consents, and avoid technical and contractual pitfalls. We show practical steps for communicating with landlords and neighbors, documenting offers and costs, and simple safety rules for electrical installation and billing. This way, tenants in shared flats keep control of the process, minimize conflicts, and are prepared if legal clarification at the local court becomes necessary.

Common mistakes with EV charging at the parking spot

The following mistakes occur frequently and lead to disputes or unnecessary costs:

• Installing without landlord consent and risking later legal problems.
• Failing to agree on cost sharing with flatmates, causing financial conflicts.
• Carrying out incorrect or improper electrical work without a certified professional.
• Making few or no written agreements on use, billing, and maintenance.

Tenants' rights and obligations

As a tenant you have rights under tenancy law in the German Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch, BGB), for example regarding use, maintenance duties and defects; relevant rules can be found in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] Court proceedings follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), for example in eviction suits or cost disputes.^[2] Rental disputes are generally heard in the local court (Amtsgericht) in the first instance; jurisdiction for many tenancy cases is defined there.^[3]

Technical and contractual checkpoints

• Check whether the electrical installation has the necessary capacity and protective devices.
• Obtain and compare quotes from certified electricians.
• Contractually define who bears costs for purchase, installation, operation and maintenance.
• Specify how electricity consumption will be measured and billed, technically and contractually.

How tenants should proceed safely

Use these steps as practical guidance before implementing an EV charging point:

1. Inform the landlord in writing about your plan and request consent.
2. Collect quotes and technician reports to demonstrate safe electrical installation.
3. Create a written financing and billing model with the flatmates.
4. Set and document deadlines for approvals and execution.

Resolving disputes: what to do if there is a conflict?

First, talk to the landlord and document all agreements in writing. If no agreement is reached, send a formal defect notice or request for consent by registered mail with a deadline. If the conflict persists, tenants can consider filing a lawsuit at the competent local court; observe the requirements of the ZPO and prepare all evidence.^[2]

FAQ

Do I always need landlord permission for an EV charging point at the parking spot?

Generally yes, landlord consent is required because structural changes and connections can affect the tenancy and the commercial use of electricity supply.

Who pays for installation and electricity?

This should be agreed in writing; without agreement the applicant often remains responsible unless the landlord voluntarily covers costs.

What if the landlord refuses consent?

You can present a reasoned request with alternative proposals; if refusal persists, legal advice or clarification at the local court is an option.

How-To

Step-by-step how flatshare tenants should proceed:

1. Draft a short written request to the landlord including technical details and cost estimates.
2. Collect quotes from certified electricians and safety documentation.
3. Create a cost and usage agreement for the flatshare and have all parties sign it.
4. Set deadlines for approval and execution and archive all documents.

Help and Support / Resources

• Check tenancy law rules in the BGB.
• Information on the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for court actions.
• Information on the Courts Constitution Act (GVG) and local court jurisdiction.

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet: Gerichtsverfassungsgesetz (GVG)