Tenants: Billing EV Charging in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know how EV charging bills work and when you can dispute a reimbursement. Many landlords bill charging electricity via service charges or separate invoices; this can lead to errors or unclear amounts. This guide explains in plain language which legal bases apply, which proofs you should collect, and how to formally file an objection or, if necessary, sue at the local court. Step by step we show how to observe deadlines, use template texts and organize receipts so that you can effectively enforce your rights as a tenant in Germany. For example: If your landlord charges a flat fee, check metering data and meter readings and request a detailed breakdown.

What applies legally?

Basic rules on tenancy and use are set out in §§ 535–580a of the BGB.^[1] Specific rules on operating costs can be found in the Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV), which is relevant for billing and allocation.^[2] In case of doubt: check whether the landlord may legally allocate the costs to you and whether measuring points or meters are comprehensible.

Check the invoice

Practical checks help to find and dispute errors. Collect proof, compare consumption values and request a detailed breakdown if items are unclear.

• Check metering data, meter readings and invoices from the charging provider.
• Request a detailed cost statement from the landlord by email or letter.
• Compare billed amounts with documented charging sessions and costs.
• Document all contacts with landlord, property manager and service providers.

Forms and deadlines

If you want to dispute a bill, act quickly: write a formal objection, set a deadline for correction and keep an eye on deadlines for possible legal action. For tenancy disputes, the local court is usually responsible for first-instance decisions.^[3]

• Set a clear deadline for the landlord (e.g. 14 days) to respond.
• Send objections in writing and verifiably (by registered mail or email with confirmation).
• If necessary, file a claim at the local court.

Which proofs strengthen your position?

Good proofs are: meter readings before and after charging sessions, invoices from the energy supplier, photos of charging points, session log files and bank statements. Arrange documents chronologically and briefly summarize which items you dispute and why.

FAQ

Who pays for EV charging, landlord or tenant?

It depends on the contract: often the landlord bills via service charges or issues a separate claim; the decisive factors are the lease agreements and billing practice.

Can I reclaim a reimbursement if billed incorrectly?

Yes, if the invoice is not comprehensible or is incorrect, tenants can file objections and demand reimbursements.

Where can I turn if the landlord does not respond?

First follow up in writing, then seek legal advice; for court action the local court is competent.

How-To

1. Collect all documents: invoices, meter readings, photos and log files.
2. Write a formal objection to the landlord and request a detailed breakdown.
3. Set a deadline for correction (for example 14 days).
4. If no agreement is reached, prepare documents to file a claim at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet (BGB, BetrKV)
• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case law

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Information on local courts — justiz.de
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de