Tenant Rights Germany: Viewing Equality Checklist

Many tenants in German cities find that apartment viewings are not always fair. This guide helps tenants in Germany recognize discrimination during viewings, secure evidence legally, and proceed step by step. You will learn which documents, photos and conversation notes are important, when to seek legal help and which authorities and courts are responsible. The tips are practical: suggested wording for questions, steps for objections and guidance on deadlines are explained clearly. The aim is that you as a tenant can better enforce your rights under tenancy law, avoid trouble and, if necessary, act effectively against disadvantage. The checklist at the end summarizes the most important evidence and deadlines so you can arrive prepared at viewings and react quickly in case of doubt.

Legal framework

German tenancy law is governed by the BGB, which regulates landlord and tenant duties such as maintenance and use of the rented object. Important provisions on obligations and termination are found in §§ 535–580a BGB.^[1] Court procedures and lawsuits follow the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO), for example in eviction proceedings or injunctions.^[2]

When is there discrimination at viewings?

Discrimination can occur if prospective tenants are disadvantaged because of origin, religion, gender, family status or housing entitlement. In Germany, affected persons can consult the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency for guidance and steps to take.^[3]

Checklist: Collect evidence securely

• Documentation: collect photos, messages and notes of conversations (evidence).
• Deadlines: note when the refusal or restriction was stated (time/deadline).
• Witnesses: record names and contact details of those present (contact).
• Correspondence: save emails, SMS and listings as files (form).
• Privacy: note if viewings occurred without consent (entry/privacy).

Practical steps before and after the viewing

Prepare questions, note offers and compare treatment with other applicants. If you suspect discrimination, request a written justification or confirm statements by e‑mail to create evidence.

Forms and templates (official guidance)

There is no single official form for all cases, but the following documents and applications are relevant and used by authorities or courts: termination letters (sample wording from the Federal Ministry of Justice for orientation), complaint/claim under the ZPO at the local Amtsgericht and, if necessary, an application for legal advice assistance (Beratungshilfeschein) to finance an initial legal consultation. Use the links in the Help section for official forms and guidance.

FAQ

What can I do if I am denied a viewing?

Request a written explanation, document the incident and contact the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency or a tenant advice center.

Which pieces of evidence are most important?

Photos, timestamps of messages, e‑mails, listings and witness statements are particularly helpful.

Which court do I go to in case of dispute?

For tenancy disputes, the local Amtsgericht (tenancy court) usually has jurisdiction in the first instance; appeals go to the Landgericht and possibly the Federal Court of Justice.

How-To

1. Step 1: Document carefully: collect photos, names, times and written statements (document).
2. Step 2: Contact: ask the landlord in writing for clarification and a justification of the decision (contact).
3. Step 3: Check forms: apply for a Beratungshilfeschein or prepare claim documents for the Amtsgericht (file).
4. Step 4: Lawsuit/report: if necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent Amtsgericht or take legal action (court).

Help and Support

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency – Advice and hotline
• Laws on the Internet – BGB and ZPO
• Federal Court of Justice – tenancy law decisions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – BGB §535
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – ZPO
3. [3] Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency