Tenant: EV Charging at Parking Space in Germany

As a tenant in a major city in Germany, you may often face the question of how to plan and implement an EV charging point at your parking space in a legally compliant way. This text explains in plain language your rights, obligations and possible steps when dealing with landlord, property management and authorities. We cover when landlord consent is required, how cost allocation, structural measures and access are regulated, and which deadlines and proofs are important. You will also find references to official legislation, case law and responsible authorities so you can prepare applications, discussions and, if necessary, legal actions. Examples and simple action steps help you assess cost issues, rent-reduction situations and possible objections before sending formal letters or using court procedures.

Rights and Duties

Fundamentally, the German Civil Code (BGB) governs the main duties of landlord and tenant; important provisions are found in §§ 535–580a of the BGB ^[1]. For structural changes to the parking space, landlord consent is usually required. If a dispute arises, local courts (Amtsgerichte) decide in first instance; appeals go to regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice ^[3].

• Check landlord consent (application/written form).
• Clarify cost sharing: who pays installation, operation and removal.
• Check stability and wiring issues with a qualified electrician.
• Data protection and access: who holds keys or remote access?

Landlord Consent & Contracts

Request written consent or a separate use agreement; without clear rules, risks remain for removal, damage or liability for the tenant. Include purpose, cost estimate, installation period and removal rules in your application. If the landlord refuses or does not respond, check deadlines and possible steps under the Code of Civil Procedure, such as payment orders or lawsuits ^[2].

• Submit application with technical offer and cost estimate.
• Agree on removal rules in writing.
• Clarify liability and insurance matters.

Practical Steps for Implementation

Plan in coordination with an electrician and the landlord: determine power requirements, possible upgrade of the main connection and choice of a suitable charging system. Obtain cost estimates and present them to the landlord. Keep technical documents, invoices and emails as evidence.

Applications, Deadlines and Evidence

If you take formal steps, observe deadlines for applications and responses. Send important letters by registered mail or with delivery confirmation. Take photos before, during and after installation and note dates and contacts.

• Document correspondence by registered mail or email with read receipt.
• Collect photos and invoices as evidence.
• Record deadlines and respond in time.

FAQ

Do I need my landlord's consent for an EV charging point at the parking space?

Yes, usually written consent is required. Clarify scope, costs and removal with the landlord in writing.

Who pays for installation and operation?

That depends on the agreement and the lease; tenants often pay, but cost sharing can be negotiated.

What if the landlord does not reply?

Document attempts to contact them and consider legal steps such as a formal demand or court action under the Code of Civil Procedure.

How-To

1. Inform the landlord in writing about your project with cost estimate and technical details.
2. Obtain at least two quotes from electricians and present them to the landlord.
3. Agree in writing on installation, operation and removal including liability rules.
4. Secure all documents, invoices and photos as evidence.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)
• Laws in Germany: BGB
• Justice Portal: information on courts and procedures

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH)