German courts tighten rules for PV installers and redefine new‑car status

The Higher Regional Court (OLG) in Koblenz ruled that companies planning, installing, operating and maintaining photovoltaic systems must be entered in the craft register, classifying the work as core roof‑working and electrical trade. A provider without such registration was deemed to act anti‑competitively, allowing a trade association to seek an injunction (case 9 U 1015/25).

The OLG in Saarbrücken clarified that a vehicle left unused for about a year no longer qualifies as a "new" car for insurance settlements, even if mileage is low. The decision establishes the vehicle's standby period as a decisive factor for the "factory‑new" classification, limiting compensation to repair costs and depreciation (case 3 U 43/25).

The Federal Court of Justice (BGH) confirmed that after an accident, claimants must choose a cost‑effective rental car. Reimbursement is based on the actual vehicle hired and its reasonable price, not on the cost of a comparable higher‑class car. Overpriced rentals are not payable (case VI ZR 67/25).