Report Discriminatory Listing for Tenants in Germany

Many tenants in Germany encounter rental listings that exclude or disadvantage certain groups. This guide explains step by step how you as a tenant can identify discriminatory listings, which indicia to collect as evidence, and how to officially report the matter. We explain important terms from tenancy law in plain language, show relevant deadlines and name the authorities and courts responsible in such cases. Use the practical checklists and sample guidance to represent your rights factually and to prepare possible legal measures.

What is a discriminatory rental listing?

A discriminatory listing excludes applicants based on characteristics such as origin, gender, religion, disability or family status. Such formulations can violate the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) and are unlawful in the housing market.

What evidence should tenants collect?

• Photos or screenshots of the listing with date and URL or screenshot timestamp.
• Comparison offers from the same platform to document wording.
• Saved messages, replies or rejections from landlords.
• Witness statements with contact information and short accounts.

Steps to report a listing

Proceed in a structured way: gather evidence, check forms, send a complaint to the platform or the anti-discrimination office, and prepare legal steps if necessary. Inform yourself about deadlines under the BGB and ZPO if civil action becomes necessary.^[1]

• Contact the platform where the listing appeared first and request deletion or amendment.
• File a complaint with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Office if personal rights are affected.^[2]
• If necessary, prepare a civil lawsuit; the local court (Amtsgericht) is often responsible for tenancy disputes.^[3]

Forms and templates

There is no single nationwide standard form for every complaint, but the Anti-Discrimination Office provides guidance and contact forms. For court proceedings, complaint templates or statements according to the rules of the ZPO may be required. Use official templates only as guidance and have important letters legally reviewed if necessary.^[2]

Practical tips for communication

• Name the contested wording factually and attach evidence.
• Specify clear response deadlines (e.g. 14 days) and document the deadline setting.
• Avoid emotional accusations in initial letters; factual wording often leads to faster solutions.

FAQ

Can I report a listing anonymously?

Many platforms accept anonymous tips, but for an official complaint to authorities contact details are usually useful so follow-up questions are possible.

Which authorities are responsible?

Primarily the Federal Anti-Discrimination Office and for civil disputes the local courts; in appeals the Regional Courts or the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).

What deadlines apply for legal action?

Deadlines depend on the type of action and the rules of the ZPO; you should act promptly in cases of litigation because evidence preservation is important.^[1]

How-To

1. Collect screenshots, date, time and all relevant details of the listing immediately.
2. Create a short written chronology of events with collected evidence.
3. Contact the platform and the Anti-Discrimination Office with the evidence.
4. If no solution occurs, consider legal action at the competent local court.
5. Document all responses and keep copies secure.

Key takeaways

• Act quickly to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
• Use official channels and document every step.

Help and Support

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Office
• Laws in the Internet (BGB & ZPO)
• Justice Portal: Court Information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) & Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Federal Anti-Discrimination Office — Advice and Complaints
3. [3] Justice Portal — Information on Local Courts and Competence