AGG Complaint: Tenants Documenting in Germany

What is an AGG complaint?

An AGG complaint refers to the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) and addresses disadvantages based on characteristics such as gender, ethnic origin, religion, disability or age. The AGG also protects persons in the residential environment; if you feel discriminated against, you can document violations of these rights and report them^[2].

Which evidence and indications are important?

• Date and time (time) of all incidents note
• Photos and screenshots (photo) of messages, defects or statements secure
• Name witnesses and record contact details (call)
• Keep written correspondence: e-mails, SMS, terminations (form)
• Document rent payments, deposit and financial consequences (rent)
• Document defect reports and repair requests (repair)

What should be in a complaint template

A clear complaint letter states date, time, persons involved, specific incidents and the desired remedy. List evidence (photos, messages) and attach witness information. There is no single governmental form for AGG complaints; for court steps, however, the complaint statement according to the ZPO is relevant^[3].

To whom to report?

First try a written complaint to the landlord or property manager. If no internal solution is reached, you can examine legal steps and contact the responsible local court; in civil cases, the ZPO regulates the further procedure^[3].

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I file an AGG complaint myself?

Yes. You can submit a written complaint to the landlord or the responsible authority. If uncertain about the legal situation, seek advice from tenant associations or lawyers.

What deadlines apply to complaints and lawsuits?

Deadlines depend on the specific legal route; in court proceedings, the deadlines of the ZPO and the limitation periods of the BGB must be observed. Record deadlines immediately.

Which courts are responsible for tenancy disputes?

Most tenancy disputes are handled by the local court (Amtsgericht); higher instances include regional courts (Landgericht) and possibly the Federal Court of Justice.

How-To

1. Collect all evidence: photos, messages, witnesses and payment records.
2. Write a clear complaint to the landlord or management with a specific demand and deadline (form).
3. Seek advice from official bodies or tenant associations and document every contact.
4. If no agreement is reached, consider filing a lawsuit at the local court; submit a complaint statement according to the ZPO (court).

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535–580a — Laws in Germany (Gesetze im Internet)
• General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) — Gesetze im Internet
• Civil Procedure Code (ZPO) — Laws in Germany

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet