Tenant Checklist Germany: PV Costs & Mieterstrom

As a tenant in Germany you should carefully check which costs you will face before signing a PV system or tenant electricity agreement. Documentation protects your rights: keep offers, invoices, emails and the lease. Clarify in writing who is responsible for operation, maintenance and insurance and whether the landlord intends to pass costs on to the rent. In shared flats it is important to formally regulate responsibilities and cost shares. If modernizations are planned, inform yourself about tenant rights, possible rent increases and takeover deadlines as well as the legal foundations in Germany ^[1]. This preparation helps to avoid later disputes and strengthens your position.

What tenants should check now

Before you sign, request a clear cost breakdown and a schedule. Pay attention to the following points:

• Request and read all forms and contracts completely and demand a written cost breakdown.
• Clarify cost sharing: acquisition, operation, maintenance and any rent pass-through.
• Document maintenance and repair regulations in writing.
• Keep all offers, photos and emails as evidence.

Contracts and tenancy law

Check whether the landlord classifies the measure as a modernization within the meaning of the BGB and which deadlines apply. Note contract changes in writing and ask specifically whether there is a separate tenant electricity agreement and how billing is carried out. Legal bases can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a ^[1] and in civil procedure law for possible court disputes ^[2].

Shared-flat specific notes

In shared flats, record internally who covers which costs and how payments are made. Use simple template agreements attached to the lease or your own written agreements.

FAQ

Who pays for the PV system?

That depends on the contract: landlords often cover acquisition, but operation costs or pass-throughs can be agreed; check the written agreement.

Can the landlord pass costs on to the rent?

For modernization, a rent increase may be possible; statutory rules are set out in the BGB and must be followed ^[1].

What is tenant electricity and is it worthwhile for tenants?

Tenant electricity means power from the roof, often cheaper than grid power, but compare prices, terms and cancellation rules carefully.

How-To

1. Request all offers, cost breakdowns and draft contracts in writing.
2. Document date, time and content of all conversations by email or protocol.
3. Compare tenant electricity prices with your previous electricity tariff before signing.
4. Clarify maintenance, liability and insurance issues in writing.
5. Find out about legal remedies and the competent local courts for tenancy disputes.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation is essential and protects against unclear costs.
• Written agreements between tenant and landlord prevent misunderstandings.
• Critically compare tenant electricity offers and prices.

Help and Support

• Hotline and information from the Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection
• Laws online: German Civil Code (BGB)
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – case law

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Operating Costs Ordinance (BetrKV) – Gesetze im Internet