AGG Complaint Checklist for Tenants in Germany
As a tenant in Germany, you may experience discrimination when accessing housing or during an ongoing tenancy. This guide helps you prepare an AGG complaint strategically: you will learn which evidence tenants should collect, which deadlines to observe and how to structure formal letters to landlords or authorities. We explain the most important legal basics in plain language, typical cases from large cities and practical action steps — from internal complaints to a possible lawsuit at the local court. The goal is to make you capable of acting, secure your rights and avoid unnecessary mistakes. This text does not replace legal advice but provides concrete, immediately applicable steps for tenants in Germany.
What is an AGG complaint?
An AGG complaint addresses discrimination under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). As a tenant, you can file a complaint if you were treated unfairly due to age, gender, religion, disability or origin when renting or during the tenancy[1]. The complaint can be internal to the landlord, written to the property management or serve as a basis for court proceedings. Important: documentation, witnesses and clear deadlines improve chances of success.
Preparation and evidence collection
Before taking formal steps, tenants should systematically collect evidence and act in a structured way. The following points help to organize preparation:
- Document evidence: photos of the apartment condition, screenshots of messages, names and contact details of witnesses.
- Observe deadlines: note dates of incidents, set deadlines for landlord responses and save replies.
- Prepare forms and letters: complaint letter to the landlord, if necessary a formal request by registered mail.
- Secure correspondence: save emails, request delivery confirmations and send mail by registered post.
Communication with landlord and authorities
When contacting the landlord or property management: remain factual, name deadlines and attach evidence. Request a written statement and record every conversation. If necessary, inform municipal offices or the local court about the further procedure[2].
- Internal complaint: a short, factual letter with a request for a statement and a deadline.
- Deadline setting: usually 14 days for a response is recommended; state a concrete deadline and send by registered mail.
- Consider applying for legal aid (PKH) if court proceedings become necessary[3].
FAQ
- Can I sue as a tenant for discrimination?
- Yes. Tenants can pursue legal action against discrimination, first with an internal complaint and, if necessary, with a lawsuit at the competent local court. Legal bases include the BGB and the AGG[1].
- Which deadlines matter?
- Important deadlines include the landlord's response time (recommended 14 days), limitation periods for compensation claims and deadlines for filing a lawsuit. Check deadlines early and set clear dates.
- Which forms do I need?
- For court actions you need the complaint forms of the competent local court; for financial support the application for legal aid. Local courts provide templates and forms online.
How-To
- Record the incident immediately: date, time and involved persons.
- Collect evidence: photos, messages, witness contacts and copy relevant documents.
- Write a formal complaint to the landlord with a deadline and attach evidence.
- Check for legal support and consider applying for legal aid before filing a lawsuit.
- File the complaint at the competent local court and present your documentation in order.
Key Takeaways
- Collect and secure evidence as soon as possible.
- Name clear deadlines in written communication.
- Use official forms and contact the local court if needed.
Help and Support
- General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) – gesetze-im-internet.de
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de
