Tenant Checklist: Report Discriminatory Ad in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you can report discriminatory housing ads when landlords exclude certain groups or list prohibited criteria. This guide explains clearly which indications count, which official bodies are responsible, and which forms and deadlines you must observe. We show how to collect evidence, draft a precise complaint, and when a local court or the responsible state authority should be involved. The information is based on relevant provisions of the BGB^[1] and the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG)^[2] so you can protect your rights without legal expertise. Read on for step-by-step instructions and sample complaint texts.

What to do if you find discriminatory ads

Act in a structured way: gather evidence, note dates and communicate in writing. Discriminatory formulations include hints that exclude origin, religion, marital status, gender or age. Besides the AGG, tenancy obligations may be relevant; in a dispute the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent^[3].

• Collect evidence: secure photos, screenshots, ad URL, date and notes of conversations.
• Draft a complaint: keep it short, factual and include concrete indications to send to the landlord or platform.
• Contact: inform the state anti-discrimination office or the platform hotline.
• Consider legal steps: file a suit or statement at the local court if necessary.

Forms, deadlines and practical templates

There is no uniform nationwide form for complaints against discriminatory ads; many state anti-discrimination offices offer online guidance or contact forms. For tenancy procedures you use the usual complaint and pleading rules according to the ZPO at the local court. Before filing suit, we recommend sending a written demand to the landlord with a deadline and a clear request (e.g., removal of the ad or injunction).

• Complaint to state anti-discrimination office: written statement with ad evidence and date.
• Written demand to landlord (deadline): send a template letter by registered mail.
• Lawsuit at the local court: complaint according to ZPO; request injunction and possibly damages.

Evidence collection: how to do it correctly

Collect several independent indications: ad screenshots, URL, date, witnesses and e‑mail or chat records. Write a short protocol describing who said or wrote what and when. Keep originals and copies separately.

• Secure screenshot: record URL, date and ad content.
• Witness notes: record names, contact details and short statements.
• Copy documents: export e-mails, SMS or platform messages.

FAQ

Can I have an ad deleted immediately for discrimination?

You can request the platform and the landlord in writing to remove the ad; if they refuse, report the case to the state anti-discrimination office or consider legal action.

Must I set a deadline before filing a lawsuit?

Yes: a written deadline to the landlord is practical and can be considered favorable conduct in court.

Which court decides tenancy disputes?

In most cases the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent; in higher instances the regional court or the BGH may decide.^[3]

How-To

1. Collect evidence immediately: screenshots, URLs, date, witnesses and messages.
2. Draft a written complaint with clear indications and a concrete demand.
3. Submit the complaint to the platform and the state anti-discrimination office.
4. Set a deadline and prepare a lawsuit at the local court if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG) information
• Civil Code (BGB), Tenancy §535
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) information

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §535
2. [2] Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG)
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH)
4. [4] Federal Ministry of Justice and Consumer Protection (BMJ)