Tenant Guide: PV & Tenant Power in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to document PV systems and tenant electricity in older buildings carefully so that your rights are protected in case of disputes or modernization. This guide explains in plain language which photos, meter readings and correspondence you should collect, how to observe deadlines and forms, and which authorities and courts are responsible. Concrete step-by-step suggestions help you organize evidence clearly, inform the landlord formally and prepare legal steps if necessary. The aim is to strengthen your position as a tenant, avoid unnecessary costs and present clear proof in disputes without legal jargon.

Why documentation matters

Documentation protects tenants' rights because photos, meter readings and correspondence provide concrete proof of condition, operation and agreements. In disputes about cost allocation or tenant electricity operation, clean documentation can determine whether a claim is justified. Relevant legal bases are found in the BGB for tenancy relationships.^[1]

What to document

• Photos of the PV system condition and cable connections, with date and location reference.
• Regular meter readings (electricity and feed‑in) with date.
• Correspondence with the landlord: emails, letters and agreements.
• Contracts or notices on tenant electricity arrangements and cost allocation.
• Receipts or statements showing cost allocations or feed‑in payments.

Concrete steps

1. Collect evidence: photos, meter readings, emails and written statements in one folder.
2. Inform the landlord in writing about discrepancies and request clarification; set deadlines.
3. Send important letters by registered mail or with proof of receipt to prove deadlines.
4. If no solution follows: seek advice and consider court action or a payment order at the local court.

Forms & deadlines

Legal rules for court proceedings and payment orders are found in the ZPO; many local courts provide guidance and forms.^[2] Pay attention to short deadlines for objections and formal requirements for terminations or complaints under BGB and ZPO.

In case of dispute: court & jurisdiction

Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht) in the first instance; important precedents are decided by the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3] Documentation makes it easier for the court to examine claims and counterclaims.

FAQ

Can I, as a tenant, read meters myself and use the readings?

Yes, you may photograph and note meter readings; courts use such personal records as evidence for binding settlements.

Is an email sufficient as evidence?

Emails are evidence, but a registered letter or proof of receipt is more secure.

Who decides on cost allocation for tenant electricity?

Legitimacy depends on lease agreements and statutory rules under the BGB; in disputes a court decides.

How-To

1. Create a chronological folder with date, photo and a short note for each entry.
2. Send a formal notification to the landlord with specific points and a reasonable deadline for response.
3. Document responses and deadlines; send deadline notices in a verifiable way.
4. Seek legal advice if no resolution occurs; prepare documents for potential litigation.

Key Takeaways

• Regular documentation builds reliable evidence.
• Deadlines and formal requirements are crucial for success.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Ministry of Justice – bmj.de

1. [1] §§ 535–580a BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – gesetzestext
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions on tenancy law