Tenant Rights EV Charging Garage in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of whether they may have an EV charging point installed in the garage and who will pay. This article explains in plain language what rights and duties tenants have, how modernization rules under the BGB and cost allocation can apply, what formalities are required with the landlord, and which deadlines and records matter. You will receive practical tips for negotiating with the landlord, documenting offers, and understanding social housing with a Wohnberechtigungsschein. In case of dispute, a written request and, if necessary, the local court can help as a mediator.

Legal framework

Fundamentally, tenancy law is regulated in the German Civil Code (BGB). Key are the provisions on modernization and the use of the rented property as well as the landlord's maintenance obligations.^[1] For court disputes, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply.^[2]

Modernization vs. maintenance

A fixed charging station in a commonly used garage is usually considered a modernization if it improves use or is a new technical installation. The allocation of modernization costs to tenants is subject to strict BGB requirements; blanket demands by the landlord are not automatically permitted.^[1]

Social housing and Wohnberechtigungsschein

In social housing with a Wohnberechtigungsschein, additional rules or funding conditions may apply; check your lease and the funding regulations.

Practical steps to negotiate with the landlord

Before installing a charger yourself, check technical feasibility (power capacity, meter, fire safety) and obtain a qualified quote. Send the landlord a written request with the cost estimate and a short legal rationale (e.g., modernization request or user agreement). If the landlord refuses, a detailed recap by registered mail can be useful.

Typical agreement elements

• Who pays purchase and installation costs?
• Who covers ongoing electricity costs and billing?
• Who is liable for damage or removal at move-out?

FAQ

Can I as a tenant install a charging station myself?

Only with the landlord's consent or if contractually permitted; without agreement you may face claims for damages or removal obligations.

Who pays costs in social housing?

It depends on funding conditions and the lease; often prior approvals are required and cost allocation is limited.

What if the landlord refuses?

Document communications, check legal options and consider advice or filing a suit at the local court.

How-To

1. Obtain technical information and at least two quotes.
2. Send a formal request to the landlord with the quote and cost breakdown.
3. Negotiate a usage or cost agreement and record all points in writing.
4. If necessary, seek legal advice and consider court action at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB (Tenancy law) — Gesetze im Internet
• ZPO (Procedure) — Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Court (BGH)
4. [4] German Justice Portal — Forms and Information