Report Discriminatory Ads for Tenants in Germany
If you, as a tenant in Germany, encounter a discriminatory housing ad, it is important to know how to respond. This guide explains in plain language what rights tenants have, how discrimination is classified under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) and tenancy law, which authorities and courts are responsible, and which forms or evidence you need. You will learn step by step how to document ads, file complaints with authorities and, if necessary, prepare a lawsuit at the local court. The aim is to give you secure, practical steps so you can enforce your rights in Germany.
What to do immediately
Legal basis: Tenant rights are found in the BGB, §§ 535–580a [1], and discrimination is regulated by the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) [2]. Record details of the ad and gather evidence.
- Save the ad immediately: take screenshots, secure timestamps and the URL.
- Note deadlines: respond within a few days if deadlines are specified.
- Use forms: fill in official complaint forms or the platform's contact forms.
- Seek contact: report discrimination to the platform or to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency.
Complaint routes and court
First report the ad to the platform and additionally to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency; if no remedy occurs, civil action before the local court can be considered [3]. Pay attention to deadlines and possible costs.
- Report to the platform: use the platform's report function.
- Complaint to the Anti-Discrimination Agency: use official complaint channels.
- Legal action: if necessary, consider filing a lawsuit at the competent local court.
FAQ
- Can I report an ad for discrimination?
- Yes. You can report the ad to the platform and additionally file a complaint with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency.
- What evidence helps?
- Screenshots with timestamps, the original ad URL, witness statements and message histories are helpful.
- Will a tenancy dispute be decided at the local court?
- Yes. Many tenancy disputes, including cases involving discrimination, are initially heard at the local court.
How-To
- Document the ad: secure screenshots, timestamps and the URL.
- Fill in complaint forms: use official forms or the platform's options.
- Observe deadlines: note response and procedural deadlines.
- Prepare legal action: collect documents and file at the local court.
