Tenants: Check Garage Charging Station in Germany

Check Charging Stations in the Basement Garage

Many tenants in Germany want to use a charging station in the basement garage of their older building but are unsure about technical requirements, landlord consent obligations^[1] and cost coverage. First check the building's electrical capacity, supply lines and possible structural changes before commissioning an installation. Ask your landlord in writing and request information about modernization plans and distribution cabinets. In case of disputes over consent or costs, legal action at the local court may become relevant.^[4]

What You Should Check

• Electrical capacity and circuit breaker ratings.
• Landlord consent and provisions in the lease.
• Approvals from the condominium owners' association (if applicable).
• Who bears the costs, modernization and possible allocation.
• Check available funding and application procedures.^[2]

Technical inspections should be carried out by a qualified electrical contractor; request a quote with test protocol and warranty. Keep all correspondence and invoices organized, which makes later complaints easier.

Rights and Duties in Brief

The landlord generally has the duty to maintain the rented property; tenant modifications often require consent or agreements on costs. For modernizations the landlord may under certain conditions pass on costs, but measures affecting communal infrastructure are subject to special rules and possibly WEG approval procedures.^[1]

Forms and Templates

• Written request to the landlord with a deadline.
• Application for WEG consent, if applicable.
• Funding applications according to the requirements of the responsible federal agency.^[3]
• In legal disputes: filing a claim at the local court.^[4]

FAQ

Do I need the landlord's consent for a charging station?

Yes, structural changes and electrical connections in the garage usually require the landlord's or the condominium association's consent.

Who pays installation and connection costs?

That depends on agreements, the lease and modernization rules; grants can reduce costs.

Where do I turn in case of a dispute?

Legal disputes are usually handled by the local court; check deadlines and evidence carefully.

How-To

1. Check the electrical infrastructure and get a quote from a qualified electrical contractor.
2. Send a written request to the landlord and set a response deadline.
3. If WEG is affected: submit a consent request at the owners' meeting.
4. Apply for available funding according to the responsible authority's rules.
5. Document all steps, invoices and correspondence for any legal proceedings.
6. Seek legal advice if needed and file a claim at the local court.

Key Points

• Written consent clarifies rights and reduces disputes.
• Technical inspection by a specialist is mandatory.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 - Duties of the landlord
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO)
• Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy – Electromobility

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 – Maintenance of the rented property
2. [2] Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy – Electromobility
3. [3] Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy – Funding programmes
4. [4] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Court proceedings