Tenant: Billing EV Charging in Germany
As a tenant in Germany you may wonder how to correctly bill electricity for charging your electric vehicle or request reimbursement. This guide explains in practical terms which documents you should collect, which deadlines apply and what legal steps are possible if you are owed a refund or a charge is unclear. We explain terms from service charge accounting, list important receipts and show how to prepare an orderly claim. If necessary, you will also learn when a visit to the local court may be useful and what documentation courts typically expect.[1]
Basics: who pays what?
Fundamentally, much depends on the rental agreement and the service charge agreement. For charging installations, it may be agreed that the tenant covers costs, or the landlord bills a flat rate or usage-based. Check the contract carefully and keep consumption values, meter readings and individual receipts ready. In case of doubt, consult the relevant statutory provisions.[2]
Checklist: documents and claim
- Check deadlines (deadline): verify the period within which claims for service charges can be made.
- Collect receipts (evidence): charging proofs, meter readings, invoices and payment receipts.
- Prepare forms (form): draft an informal claim letter, date it and attach copies.
- Technical evidence (repair): for shared charging points secure system specifications and measurement protocols.
- Plan legal steps (court): know which local court is competent in case of dispute and what documents are typically required.
When submitting a claim, explain the basis clearly (e.g. actual consumption) and attach copies of the receipts. Send the letter by registered mail or deliver it with a proof of receipt so you have a delivery record.
Often an amicable resolution is possible: ask for extra time to review the statement, propose a joint appointment to inspect invoices or meter logs. If the landlord does not respond, you may withhold payment until the statement is clarified, but watch contractual obligations and possible consequences.
Forms and templates (official guidance)
Many steps have no uniform official forms, but relevant legal provisions and court form sheets help prepare claims. Examples include standardized complaint forms for civil proceedings and statutory rules on service charge accounting. Use official law texts for interpretation and cite paragraphs where appropriate.[1][2]
FAQ
- Who pays for charging at a socket in the rental apartment?
- This is determined by the lease; without a special agreement the usual rules on apportioning service charges and consumption billing apply.
- How long can I assert a claim?
- Check contractual deadlines and general limitation periods; act promptly and document claims.
- What if the landlord does not provide receipts?
- Request them in writing, set a deadline and consider on-site inspection appointments or legal action.
How-To
- Collect all receipts: meter readings, invoices, photos of the meter and proof of payments.
- Write a formal claim (form): state amount, period and attach copies.
- Set a deadline (deadline) for response and delivery of missing receipts.
- Contact mediation or the local court for legal advice if necessary.
- If needed, prepare documents for a lawsuit: full documentation and copies of all correspondence.
Key points
- Keep complete receipts for every charging session.
- Observe deadlines and act promptly.
- Seek support when documents or claims are unclear.
Help and Support / Resources
- Gesetze im Internet: BGB §§535–580a
- Gesetze im Internet: Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
- Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Information
