Tenants in Germany: Secure E-charging Cable in Yard

As a tenant in Germany you often face practical questions: May I route an e-charging cable through the yard, who is liable for damage, and how do I obtain the landlord's consent? This guide clearly explains your rights and duties, what house rules and community law require, which safety measures make sense and which official steps are possible if the landlord refuses. Read concrete action steps, sample wording and notes about competent courts so you can avoid conflicts or bring matters before a court properly. The focus is on practical solutions for tenants and simple phrasing so you can act safely in Germany.

What applies legally?

In principle, the yard often belongs to the communal area, so changes or permanent routings require the landlord's or owners' association's consent. The landlord is responsible for maintenance under tenancy law; at the same time, routing without consent can be considered an intervention in communal property and may be prohibited.^[1]

Safety and electrical issues

For charging electric vehicles, only suitable, professionally installed electrical infrastructure should be used. Provisional cables across walkways increase the risk of accidents and fire; a permanent solution should be a tested outlet or a wallbox, ideally installed by a certified electrician.

Practical steps for tenants

• Written request to the landlord: Describe planned routing, safety measures and duration.
• Documentation: Secure photos, a site plan and usage times as evidence.
• Technical check: Obtain an electrician's offer and attach a cost estimate.
• Clarify payment arrangements: Who pays for purchase, installation and operating costs?

If the landlord refuses, check whether the refusal is factually justified (e.g. safety or fire protection). If the refusal is unjustified, you can seek judicial clarification; initially send a written reminder with a deadline.

Conflict resolution and legal steps

If no agreement is reached, you can file a lawsuit at the competent local court or, depending on the value in dispute, at the regional court. Civil procedure law governs filing and deadlines.^[2]

Tips before filing a lawsuit

• Try mediation or a settlement through the property management.
• Collect evidence: photos, emails, offers and witnesses.
• Inform yourself about court jurisdiction and possible cost consequences.

FAQ

1) May I route my e-charging cable through the yard?

This depends on the house rules, the lease and the landlord's consent; without permission the routing may be prohibited.

2) Who is liable for damage or accidents caused by the cable?

Generally, the person who caused the risk is liable; as a tenant you should clarify written consent and insurance issues.

3) What can I do if the landlord refuses permission?

Document the refusal, seek discussion and consider legal steps at the local court.

How-To

1. Request in writing from the landlord and provide technical details and an offer.
2. Create documentation: photos and a site plan; record usage times and access rules.
3. Hire an electrician or present an offer for professional installation.
4. Negotiate cost sharing and record it in writing.
5. If refusal continues, set a deadline in writing and consider filing at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §535 – Landlord duties
• ZPO §253 – Filing a civil lawsuit
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Rent law decisions

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §535 — Pflichten des Vermieters
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) §253 — Klageerhebung
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Entscheidungen zum Mietrecht