Tenant Rights: EV Cable in Courtyard, Germany

Many tenants in Germany experience EV charging cables being routed through the shared courtyard or across communal areas. Such situations raise questions about house rules, access, safety and the duties of landlords and neighbors. In this guide we explain in plain language which rights tenants have, which duties are regulated in the Civil Code and how you can resolve conflicts calmly and legally. You will receive a step-by-step guide, a sample letter for communication with the landlord or neighbor and guidance on when a court can be involved^[1][2][3]. The guidance applies to tenants in Germany and is based on current legal sources. Practically, we show how to create documentation, observe deadlines and which forms or courts are responsible so you can resolve disputes without unnecessary escalation.

What applies legally?

Fundamentally, landlord duties and tenant rights in the Civil Code (BGB) govern many issues around the use of communal areas and the routing of cables. The rights arising from the tenancy, the house rules and the property owner's duty to ensure safety are decisive^[1].

Practical steps for tenants

• Document location, photos, times and possible damage as evidence.
• First speak personally with the cable user and the landlord to seek an amicable solution.
• If necessary, send a written request with a deadline and the desired action.
• Pay attention to safety: report exposed cables or tripping hazards and, if necessary, secure them provisionally.

Sample letter: request removal or permission

Dear Mr./Ms. [Name],

Since [date], an EV charging cable has been routed through our shared courtyard and crosses the communal area. I ask that you route the cable so that it does not pose a danger, or provide me with a written permanent permission to use the area. Please confirm by [deadline, e.g. 14 days] which measures you will take. If no agreement is possible, I reserve the right to take further legal steps.

Sincerely

[Name, Address, Date]

This template is for orientation; for formal letters state guidance from the Federal Ministry of Justice can be helpful^[3].

FAQ

Can a neighbor simply lay a cable across the courtyard?

Not without the property owner's consent or a rule in the house regulations; landlord permission is often required.

Who pays electricity costs and for damages?

That depends on the agreement: whoever uses the charger should arrange costs and damages in writing or clarify the matter with the landlord.

When is the local court (Amtsgericht) competent?

If an amicable solution fails, tenancy disputes are generally heard at the local court; claims for injunctions or damages can be filed there.

How-To

1. Document incidents with date, time and photos as evidence.
2. Contact the cable user and the landlord first orally and then in writing.
3. Send the sample letter by registered mail or email with read receipt and set a clear deadline.
4. If no solution is possible, consider legal action at the competent local court or legal advice.

Key points

• Keep all receipts, photos and communications safely stored.
• Set deadlines in writing and keep proof of delivery.
• Check for safety risks and report immediate hazards right away.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 – Vermieterpflichten
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
• Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 – Vermieterpflichten
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ)