Tenant: Timely AGG Complaint in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, discrimination can occur when moving in, during the tenancy, or during modernizations. An AGG complaint helps to report disadvantage due to gender, origin, religion, disability or age and to safeguard rights against the landlord. This guide explains plainly how to file a complaint in time, collect evidence and document formally which deadlines to watch and where to turn. I describe concrete steps, sample formats and official sources so you can respond confidently without requiring legal expertise. If necessary, we also show how proceedings can begin at the local court and which laws may be relevant. Read on for clear action steps.

What is an AGG complaint?

An AGG complaint is a formal report of discrimination under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). It can be made to the landlord if a decision or treatment in housing is discriminatory. The AGG regulates protection against unequal treatment; as a tenant you should check the facts and record the complaint in writing.^[1]

When is a complaint timely?

For many tenancy-related claims: act as soon as possible. "Timely" here practically means documenting the disadvantage immediately and informing the landlord promptly so evidence remains fresh. In civil actions, statutory limitation periods and notification times under the BGB and ZPO must also be observed.^[2]

Collecting important evidence

• Secure photos with dates (evidence) — photograph visible damage, offensive notes or unjustified notices.
• Note dates and times (deadline) — record when incidents or conversations occurred, time and participants.
• Collect correspondence (form) — keep emails, SMS, letters and a copy of your complaint.
• Record witness contacts (contact) — names, phone numbers and brief statements from witnesses.

Practical steps: drafting the complaint

Write the complaint clearly: date, place, concrete incidents, participants, requested remedy (e.g. cessation, apology) and a request for written response. Mention laws or rules briefly; the important part is evidence and the demand. If available, attach copies of the collected evidence.

How-To

1. Act immediately (deadline): document date and time of the incident and inform the landlord within a short time.
2. Collect evidence (evidence): photos, witnesses, messages and all relevant documents and secure them.
3. Write the complaint (form): draft the complaint factually with date, participants, specific demand and deadline.
4. Seek advice (contact): contact tenant advice or official bodies if in doubt.
5. If necessary, file suit at the local court (court): consider filing at the competent Amtsgericht.

FAQ

Do I have to submit an AGG complaint in writing?

It is recommended to submit the complaint in writing so there is proof; request written confirmation of receipt.

Who should I address the complaint to first?

Address the complaint first to the landlord or property manager; for housing discrimination, reporting to municipal offices can also make sense.

What if the landlord does not respond?

Document the lack of response, seek legal advice and consider whether a suit at the local court is necessary.

Help and Support

• AGG: statute — Gesetze im Internet
• German Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — official information

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof — Informationen und Entscheidungen