Report AGG complaint: Tenant rights in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you are protected by the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) if you suspect discrimination by a landlord or neighbors. This text explains in plain language how to prepare an AGG complaint strategically: which evidence matters, which deadlines apply, which official forms are used, and which courts have jurisdiction. We cover practical steps for discrimination in the tenancy relationship, the difference from rent reduction or protection against termination, and give examples of how to document communication. At the end you will find pointers to official contact points and the most important sample letters so you can assert your rights as a tenant in Germany more confidently. The guide is written in plain language and shows concrete phrasings for complaints, deadlines, and procedural steps before local courts and higher instances.

What tenants should know

Tenancy law is regulated in the BGB.^[1] In parallel, the AGG protects against discrimination in the living environment, for example because of origin, gender or disability.^[2] In disputes, local courts are usually competent; appeals may be decided by regional courts and the Federal Court of Justice.^[3]

Collect important evidence

• Photos of incidents, damage or defamatory signs.
• Written correspondence: emails, letters and text messages with landlord or property management.
• Witness names and short statements from neighbors or visitors.
• Tenancy agreement, handover protocols and previous statements of account.
• Medical certificates if there are health consequences.

Forms and templates

There is no single official "AGG complaint" form for tenants. For court proceedings, tenants use the complaint document according to the ZPO; for internal complaints you can send an informal dated complaint letter with evidence to the landlord or property manager. Use clear dates, attach evidence and request written confirmation of receipt.

How to proceed: practical tips

Start with an internal complaint to the landlord, gather evidence and set a deadline for a response. If there is no remedy, consider legal steps such as an injunction or damages claim, or initiate proceedings at the competent local court.

FAQ

Can I demand a rent reduction because of discrimination?

A rent reduction is possible if residential use is significantly impaired; discrimination can be a reason but requires concrete evidence and an individual assessment.

Who is responsible for an AGG complaint in the tenancy relationship?

Initially the landlord or property management; for legal claims the local courts are competent, depending on the place of residence.

How-To

1. Draft the complaint in writing: state date, exact incidents, involved parties and desired remedy.
2. Attach evidence: photos, messages, witness names and medical certificates.
3. Set a deadline: 14 days is common for an initial response.
4. Obtain confirmation of receipt: use registered mail or request a receipt confirmation.
5. If no solution: consider legal action and possibly file suit at the local court.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation is critical: date, location, evidence and witnesses.
• Send a written complaint to the landlord before filing a lawsuit.
• Local courts are the first instance; the Federal Court of Justice may provide precedent.

Help and Support

• Forms & legal texts (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Federal Ministry of Justice (bmj.de)
• Federal Court of Justice – case law (bundesgerichtshof.de)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG)
3. [3] Federal Court of Justice – decisions and info