Tenant Guide 2025: Document PV Costs in Germany

As a tenant in Germany in 2025, it is important to document PV system and tenant electricity costs carefully. Many questions concern who bears costs, which receipts are accepted and how you can enforce your rights against the landlord. This article explains which invoices, meter readings and contracts tenants should collect, how to review tenant electricity agreements and which legal bases apply. Practical examples show how to gather evidence, meet deadlines and act in case of discrepancies, including pointers to authorities and courts. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and links to official forms.

Why documentation matters

Good documentation strengthens your position when it comes to cost allocations, back-charges or rent reductions. Record date, amount, contracting party and meter readings as well as photos of meters and installations. Without systematic evidence, it is difficult to prove claims or refute unjustified demands.

Which costs and records count

• Invoices for acquisition, installation or repair of the PV system including specifications and dates.
• Meter readings before and after the agreement start and regular reading logs.
• Electricity bills or tenant electricity contracts with price components and billing periods.
• Photos of installation, meters and any defects, plus emails or written agreements with the landlord.

Forms, templates and when they help

As a tenant you should know the following official documents that are useful in different situations:

• Termination letter (sample) when you need to terminate a contract; use official examples and observe deadlines.^[5]
• Landlord confirmation for registration after moving in; important for deadlines and authority contacts.^[4]

Example: If the landlord offers to charge you for installation costs, document the agreement in writing, note date and persons involved and request a detailed invoice.

Rights, deadlines and legal bases

Fundamental tenant rights are set out in the German Civil Code (BGB). For operating and heating costs the relevant ordinances apply. In disputes over bills or eviction suits, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) is decisive and competence usually lies with the local court (Amtsgericht).^[1][2][3]

Practical tips for collecting evidence

• Maintain a digital document archive with PDFs, photos and email threads.
• Record dates and times for handovers, readings or inspection appointments.
• Keep brief notes of conversations with names and phone numbers of contacts.

When it goes to court

Collect all relevant documents in advance: tenancy agreement, amendments, invoices, meter readings, correspondence. Make copies and provide the court with a clear chronological overview. In many cases, amicable settlements are possible, so consider alternative dispute resolution before litigation.

FAQ

Which costs must I document as a tenant?

Document invoices, meter readings, tenant electricity contracts, written agreements and photos of installations or defects.

Can the landlord pass PV system costs on to me?

Only if there is a clear agreement or the costs are regulated as billable operating costs; review the contract and request a detailed breakdown.

How do I submit evidence to a court?

Create an organized copy of your evidence, number the documents and submit them with a short summary to the court or as part of a debt-collection or lawsuit.

How-To

1. Gather all invoices and scan them as PDFs.
2. Record the relevant meter readings and save reading dates.
3. Contact the landlord in writing and request a detailed cost statement.
4. If no agreement is reached, prepare the documents for legal action or a court debt procedure.

Help and Support / Resources

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB
• Gesetze im Internet – Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV)
3. [3] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
4. [4] Bundesministerium des Innern – Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (Informationen)
5. [5] Bundesministerium der Justiz – Muster und Informationen