Tenants: Negotiate PV & Mieterstrom in Germany

As a tenant in Germany in 2025, you are increasingly likely to face questions about rooftop PV systems and Mieterstrom models. This guide explains in plain language what rights and obligations you have, how modernization notices are reviewed under the BGB, and when rent increases or cost allocations are permitted. You will receive practical steps for negotiating with the landlord, tips on documentation, sample forms and a checklist for deadlines and evidence preservation. The goal is that you can make an informed decision whether to agree, refuse or negotiate conditions — without legal expertise. At the end you will find frequently asked questions, a step-by-step guide and official links to laws and courts. Read on for concrete wording suggestions and deadlines.

What does Mieterstrom mean and when does it affect tenants?

Mieterstrom describes when electricity from a photovoltaic (PV) system on or at your residential building is supplied directly to tenants. This can mean lower electricity prices or additional allocations. Landlords must legally and correctly announce modernizations and cost allocations; the relevant provisions on the tenancy are found in the BGB (e.g. §§ 535–580a). ^[1]

Your rights regarding modernizations

Modernization notices must include deadlines, the type of measures, anticipated costs and expected rent increase. Tenants can respond within the legal deadline, file objections or lodge a complaint if the measure is unreasonable. Check notices carefully and request the cost breakdown. If in doubt, you can check whether a rent reduction is possible due to impairment.

Practical negotiation strategy for tenants

Before negotiating, collect the following: current meter readings, existing contract excerpts, documentation of the system, information on feed-in or remuneration models and subsidy details. Request a clear breakdown of costs and the expected financial impact on your service charges.

• Check and note deadlines before you reply.
• Request complete documents and cost estimates in writing.
• Document photos and meter readings.

Forms and templates

There are no nationwide official templates for every PV agreement, but useful standard documents include: a letter requesting full documentation, a sample objection to modernization and the application form for legal aid (PKH) if litigation is imminent. For tenancy fundamentals and procedural questions see the law texts and the Code of Civil Procedure. ^[2]

What to do in case of dispute — brief overview

If you cannot reach an agreement, factual documentation is essential: collect all letters, add dates and keep copies. For clarification, tenant conciliation services or the competent local court can help; usually the local court (Amtsgericht) decides first, then the regional court (Landgericht) and ultimately the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) on appeals. ^[3]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the landlord simply install a PV system and pass costs on to me?

The landlord may modernize, but must comply with announcement and formal requirements; allocations are only permissible under certain conditions and may be limited.

What deadlines apply after a modernization notice?

The notice must be given in good time; you have deadlines to ask questions, file objections or start negotiations.

Where do I file a lawsuit if negotiations fail?

Rental disputes are typically filed with the local court (Amtsgericht); in higher instances the regional court and the Federal Court of Justice decide.

How-To

1. Contact the landlord in writing and request complete documentation on the PV system.
2. Ask for a clear cost breakdown, including subsidies and expected allocations.
3. Check the modernization notice for deadlines and formal requirements.
4. If necessary, draft an objection letter or negotiating proposal and send it by registered mail.
5. Document all communications, meter readings and impairments with photos and dates.
6. If no agreement is reached, consider advice, mediation or filing a lawsuit at the competent local court.

Key Takeaways

• Prüfen Sie Modernisierungsankündigungen sorgfältig und fordern Sie Kostenbelege an.
• Dokumentation und Fristen sind entscheidend bei Streit.
• Suchen Sie frühzeitig Beratung, wenn Unklarheiten bestehen.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
• Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)