Tenants: Report Discriminatory Ads in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you should know how to act against discriminatory housing ads. Discrimination can target age, origin, gender, family status, religion or disability and is often illegal. In this article you will learn practically which evidence is important, which authorities you can involve and which legal bases support your rights. We explain step by step how to document, submit an official complaint and when to consider legal action, including concrete notes on forms and courts in Germany.

First steps for tenants

Start with clear documentation: save the ad, take screenshots with dates and note all contacts or replies. Check whether the ad violates the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) or tenancy duties in the Civil Code (BGB)^[1] and mark relevant passages. Contact the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency for advice and possible mediation.

If the ad appeared on a platform, also report the entry to the operator; many platforms have reporting channels for rule violations.

• Secure evidence: screenshots, URL, date and any messages.
• Observe deadlines: report incidents promptly so witnesses and digital evidence are preserved.
• Check forms: use the official complaint or contact forms of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency.
• Make contact: seek advice from official bodies or the local court if necessary.

Legal basis and authorities

The AGG protects against discrimination in many areas; it can apply to housing ads. Compare the wording of the ad with the provisions in the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)^[2]. Tenancy aspects such as contract conclusion or access to housing are covered by provisions in the BGB.^[1] For court proceedings, the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent, appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and for fundamental legal questions the Federal Court of Justice is relevant.

FAQ

Can I report discrimination in a housing ad?

Yes. As a tenant you can report discriminatory ads and formally file a complaint or seek advice.

Which authority should I contact first?

Use the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency for advice; for tenancy issues the local court may also be relevant.

Are there official complaint forms?

For the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency use their contact and reporting forms; court actions follow the rules of civil procedure.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: screenshot the ad, record date, platform name and save all messages.
2. Use the form: fill in the contact or complaint form of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency or submit a written complaint.
3. Seek advice: arrange consultation with official bodies or seek legal advice at the local court.
4. Court action: if necessary, file a claim at the local court; observe civil procedure deadlines.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency
• Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) – Gesetze im Internet

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency