Tenant Rights: EV Charging at Parking in Germany

Many tenants in Germany wonder what rights and obligations apply when charging electric vehicles at a private parking space. This text explains in plain language how you as a tenant can check claims, avoid common mistakes and proceed correctly — from coordinating with the landlord about cost issues to safely documenting installation and use. It covers practical steps, deadlines and official authorities so you can avoid disputes or resolve them effectively. Where possible, you will find simple templates and guidance on which official forms and courts are relevant.

What often goes wrong

The most common errors are missing agreements, unclear cost allocation, unsafe electrical installations and poor documentation. Without a clear written agreement, later disputes about ownership, operating costs and dismantling obligations can arise.

Rights and obligations for tenants

As a tenant you are entitled to contractual regulation regarding your parking space; many questions are governed by tenancy law in the German Civil Code (BGB), in particular the landlord's duties and maintenance obligations.^[1] In case of dispute, the local court (Amtsgericht) often decides in the first instance; higher courts are the regional court (Landgericht) or, if applicable, the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[2]

Concrete points tenants should watch

• Clear written consent from the landlord to install a wallbox or socket.
• Rules on who pays for installation, electricity and maintenance.
• Agreement on who is liable for dismantling and any resulting damage.
• Liability for defects and obligations to report hazards or malfunctions.

Practical steps before installation

Proceed systematically: inform the landlord in writing, have an electrical plan reviewed, obtain approved cost estimates and document all agreements.

What the written request should include

• Description of the desired setup (e.g. wallbox, charging power, location).
• Proposal for cost allocation for installation, electricity and maintenance.
• An offer to have the installation carried out by a certified electrician.

Forms and official templates

There is no single EU-wide sample agreement specifically for charging points, but for formal enforcement you can use official judicial forms, e.g. to file a claim at the local court or to issue a payment order under the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).^[3]

Evidence and documentation

Good documentation includes:

• All correspondence with the landlord by email and by registered mail.
• Photos of the installation, electrician test reports and invoices.
• Records of any on-site inspections or agreements.

FAQ

Can the landlord prohibit installation of a wallbox?

No, a blanket ban is not automatically effective; landlords can assert legitimate safety or property interests. Written consent or an adapted agreement is recommended.

Do I have to restore the original condition when moving out?

That depends on the agreement. Without an express dismantling obligation, a dismantling duty may exist if the installation altered the rental property; clarify this in writing.

Who pays for the electricity when charging at the parking space?

In principle, the person who consumes the electricity pays the costs. Agreements between tenant and landlord can, however, set different rules.

How-To

1. Write a formal request to the landlord with technical details and offers.
2. Have the technology checked by a certified electrician and obtain an estimate.
3. Conclude a written agreement about costs, maintenance and dismantling.
4. Secure documentation of installation, test reports and all payments.

Help & Support / Resources

• BGB tenancy provisions (excerpt)
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) — procedures
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — decisions

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Bundesgerichtshof — Decisions and press releases
3. [3] ZPO — Code of Civil Procedure (Forms and procedures)