Tenant Check: Review Application Forms in Germany

As a tenant in Germany you will often face application forms that may contain sensitive questions. This guide explains which questions are permissible, how to spot discrimination and how families can have incorrect information corrected. You will receive a practical template for a correction letter, guidance on official forms and concrete steps if the landlord requests impermissible information. We simply explain when tenancy law under §§ 535–580a BGB applies^[1], how local courts help in disputes^[2] and which deadlines matter. In the end you will know your rights, which documents are useful, and how to respond to problematic questions confidently. You will also find tips for documentation, handling landlord communication and possible steps before court.

What is permissible in the application form?

Landlords may request information relevant to payment ability or suitability for the flat. At the same time, questions that intrude on privacy or are discriminatory are often impermissible.

• Information on rent (rent) and creditworthiness is common.
• Documents (document) such as proof of income or a certificate of no rent arrears may be requested.
• Questions about origin or religion are often impermissible and may constitute discrimination (discrimination).
• Requests for consent forms (form) for data processing must be justified transparently.

How to detect and respond?

Check every application form carefully: highlight unclear or potentially impermissible questions, collect evidence and respond in writing. A structured approach helps protect your rights.

• Collect evidence (document) such as screenshots, copies of the form and emails.
• Request a correction in writing using a template correction letter (form) and send it by registered mail.
• Observe deadlines (within) for responses; preferably react within 14 days.

Official forms and practical templates

Not all tenant processes have standardized national forms, but two official frameworks are important: housing promotion law (WBS) for subsidised housing and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for court actions. Housing promotion law regulates when a housing entitlement certificate is required and how to apply (WoFG). If legal action becomes necessary, the ZPO is relevant for complaints and procedural steps ().

FAQ

Which questions may a landlord ask on the application form?

Permitted are questions that assess payment ability and suitability for the flat, such as income (rent) or references.;

What to do about discriminatory questions?

If you suspect discrimination, document the question, do not refuse to apply solely for that reason and request in writing to limit or delete it. In many cases the AGG^[3] applies.

How to use the template correction letter?

Briefly state name, date, the incorrect entry, the desired correction, a deadline (for example 14 days) and send the letter by registered mail with proof.

How-To

1. Check and copy the application form (form) immediately.
2. Collect evidence (document) such as bank statements or emails.
3. Use the correction letter template (form), date and sign the letter.
4. Send the letter by registered mail and set a clear deadline (within) of 14 days.
5. If there is no response, consider filing a complaint at the local court (court) or seeking official advice.

Key Takeaways

• Documentation (tip) strengthens your case.
• Observe deadlines (tip) to preserve rights.
• Address issues early (tip) before escalation.

Help and Support / Resources

• §§ 535–580a BGB on Gesetze im Internet
• General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) on Gesetze im Internet
• Local courts information on Justiz.de

1. [1] German Civil Code (BGB) - Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Local courts - Justiz.de
3. [3] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) - Gesetze im Internet