Tenants: Document Smart Meter Costs in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may face unexpected costs and effort during a smart meter rollout in an older building. This article explains how you, as a tenant, can systematically document costs, which records are important and how to report damage or additional costs to your landlord. It shows practical steps for collecting photos, invoices, logs and witness statements, and when to involve official bodies or the local court. The aim is to clarify your claims, avoid conflicts and prepare evidence for possible rent reductions or reimbursements. You will also learn which official forms or deadlines apply and how to present evidence to courts or authorities.

How Tenants Document Costs

Start early: note dates and times for every action, record meter readings and save copies of all invoices. Legal foundations are in the German Civil Code for tenancy relationships.^[1]

Important Records

• Photos of the meter and the installation works.
• Invoices, receipts and proof of payment.
• Measurement logs with date and time.
• Written correspondence with landlord and contractors.
• Names of witnesses and their statements.

Notify the Landlord

Inform the landlord in writing and attach all relevant evidence. State the cost items clearly and set a deadline for a response.

• Send a written notice by email or registered mail, include the date.
• Attach photos and measurement logs.
• Set a deadline for remedy (for example, 14 days).

If the Landlord Does Not Respond

Document every contact and gather all evidence. For billing issues related to heating or operating costs, observe the specific regulations.^[2][3]

• Document written reminders and deadline settings.
• If there is a risk to living conditions, report defects and notify responsible authorities.
• File a claim at the local court and attach all evidence.

How-To

1. Collect records (photos, invoices, measurement logs).
2. Notify the landlord in writing and set a deadline.
3. Keep track of deadlines and document reminders.
4. If necessary, file a claim at the local court with all evidence.^[4]
5. Check and use official information and forms.^[5]

FAQ

Do I as a tenant have to pay for the installation of a smart meter?

Whether costs can be passed on depends on the contract and the type of modernization; check your rental agreement and the legal provisions.

Which records help in a dispute?

Photos, invoices, measurement logs, written notices to the landlord and witness statements are decisive.

How long should I keep records?

Keep documents for at least two years; keep them longer until legal matters are finally resolved.

Help and Support / Resources

• German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – rulings and summaries

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB)
2. [2] Heating Costs Ordinance (HeizKV)
3. [3] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV)
4. [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
5. [5] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)