Equal Treatment at Viewings: Tenant Rights in Germany

Many tenants in Germany experience subtle or overt unequal treatment during apartment viewings. If you suspect you are being disadvantaged because of origin, gender, family status, disability or other characteristics, systematic steps help: collect evidence, note witnesses and inform the relevant authorities. This article explains which legal foundations apply, which forms and deadlines matter, how to use the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency's complaint form and when proceedings before the local court are appropriate. The tips are practical and show step by step how you can protect and enforce your rights as a tenant without prior legal knowledge. We list official sources, practical templates and authority contacts so you have clear next steps. Observe deadlines and document every contact with landlord or agent.

What to do if you suspect discrimination?

If you are disadvantaged during a viewing, clear immediate measures help. Record facts, secure digital and physical evidence and inform the appropriate offices if necessary.

• Note date, time and address.
• Secure photos, messages and listings.
• Record names and contact details of witnesses.
• Check deadlines and appointments and record them in writing.
• Fill out and submit the complaint form.

Legal foundations

Important are the German Civil Code (BGB) on tenant obligations and rights §§ 535–580a^[1], the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for lawsuits and deadlines^[2], and the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) against discrimination^[3]. In tenancy disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent in the first instance; decisions of the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) can be relevant for legal questions and precedents.

Forms and authorities

The Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency offers a complaint form to report discrimination^[4]. Example: You are rejected at a viewing and receive a discriminatory remark; complete the online form, attach date, photos and witness information and submit it. For civil law actions (e.g. injunction or damages claims) contact your local court which can provide information on submission forms and fees.

FAQ

How do I prove discrimination at a viewing?

Collect date, time, place, photos, messages and witness statements; save all communications unchanged and create a chronological summary.

Which authority can I contact?

Report incidents to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency and consider civil options at the local court; seek legal advice if needed.

Can a landlord refuse viewings?

A landlord may select prospective tenants but must not discriminate based on protected characteristics; document and act if refusal is discriminatory.

How-To

1. Note date, time and involved persons.
2. Secure evidence: photos, messages and listings.
3. Complete the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency complaint form and attach proof.
4. If necessary: prepare court filing at the local court and observe deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency (Antidiskriminierungsstelle des Bundes)
• German Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) §535 ff., gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG), gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency — Contact and complaint form