Rejection despite credit: Tenant rights in Germany

What to do if you are rejected despite good credit?

As a tenant in Germany, it is important to know what rights you have when landlords reject applications without an obvious reason. The Civil Code (Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch) regulates many basics of tenancy, such as duties and tenant protections.^[1] First, document the rejection and the circumstances, politely request a written explanation and check whether there is a suspicion of discrimination.

Concrete steps

• Report (notice): Request a written explanation from the landlord and report suspected discrimination to the appropriate authority.
• Gather evidence (evidence): Save rejections, emails, listings and details of viewing appointments as proof.
• Observe deadlines (deadline): Pay attention to deadlines for objections, claims for damages or possible lawsuits.
• Contact the local court (court): Rental disputes are usually handled by the local court (Amtsgericht), including eviction cases.^[2]
• Check official forms (form): Use templates and guidance from the Federal Ministry of Justice for letters to landlords or authorities.^[3]

FAQ

Is a rejection despite good credit automatically unlawful?

No. A rejection is not automatically unlawful. However, if there is discrimination based on protected characteristics, it can be discriminatory and therefore unlawful.

What evidence helps tenants the most?

Comparable listings, saved emails, dates/times of viewings and written rejections are particularly helpful.

Who can I contact if I suspect discrimination?

You can first ask the landlord in writing for a reason, then contact advisory services and, if necessary, consider filing a complaint with the relevant authorities or a lawsuit.

How-To

1. Make contact (notice): Ask the landlord in writing for reasons for the rejection and request confirmation.
2. Secure evidence (evidence): Save all messages, listings and names of contacts as evidence.
3. Note deadlines (deadline): Set deadlines in your calendar, e.g. for replies or possible legal actions.
4. Consider official steps (court): Check with the local court about possible claims or local advisory options.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ) - Forms and templates
• Gesetze im Internet - BGB and ZPO
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions and information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesministerium der Justiz (BMJ) — Official templates and guidance