Enforce AGG Complaint on Time for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you can defend yourself against discrimination at your residence with an AGG complaint. This guide explains in plain language which deadlines apply, which steps you as a tenant should take, and which evidence is important. I show how to file the complaint correctly, when a case can go before the local court, and which laws support your rights so you can act confidently and on time. Practical examples, form notes and pointers to official bodies help you understand the process and secure your rights. I name official sources and forms, explain how to preserve evidence, and provide a simple step-by-step plan for filing on time.

What is an AGG complaint?

The AGG complaint relates to discrimination under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). By filing a complaint, you assert to the landlord or an authority that you were disadvantaged because of characteristics such as origin, religion, gender or disability ^[1].

Deadlines and preserving evidence

For many civil claims, the regular limitation period of three years under the BGB applies; therefore report and document discrimination early ^[2]. Practically this means: act quickly, collect evidence and note witnesses.

• Report the incident immediately in writing to the landlord or property manager.
• Secure evidence: photos, messages, emails, witness names and dates.
• Keep copies of all letters and deadlines in a file.

How do I draft the complaint?

A written complaint should clearly and factually state the circumstances, date, persons involved and the desired remedy. Name specific examples, attach evidence and request a statement or remedy within a deadline.

• Briefly describe what happened, with date and time.
• Attach evidence: messages, photos or witness statements.
• Request a written reply by a specific date (e.g. 14 days).
• Keep notes of conversations and call logs.

Court: Local court and procedure

If an out-of-court settlement is not possible, a lawsuit can be filed at the local court. The local court is the first instance for many tenancy law cases; procedural rules are governed by the ZPO ^[3]. Eviction claims or claims for damages follow special procedures.

• Check whether a warning or mediation is required before filing a lawsuit.
• Submit all evidence with the complaint or announce them.
• Observe summons deadlines and court dates.

FAQ

What deadline do I have for an AGG complaint?

Direct reports should be made immediately; civil claims generally become time-barred after three years (§195 BGB). ^[2]

Do I have to inform the landlord in writing first?

Yes, a written complaint documents your efforts to resolve the matter and is important for later claims.

Where can I turn if the landlord does not respond?

If no agreement is reached, the local court is responsible; consider mediation or advisory services first.

How-To

1. Collect all relevant evidence and note witnesses.
2. Draft a written complaint with a request and deadline and send it by registered mail or email.
3. If there is no response, consider filing a lawsuit at the local court and submit evidence.

Key takeaways

• Act quickly and observe deadlines to protect your rights.
• Complete evidence collection is decisive for success.
• Use official bodies and courts if an agreement is not possible.

Help and Support / Resources

• AGG – Law text (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Civil Code (BGB) – Overview (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) – Overview (gesetze-im-internet.de)

1. [1] AGG – Gesetzestext (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] BGB – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] ZPO – Zivilprozessordnung (gesetze-im-internet.de)