Tenant Equality at Viewings in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, you may experience unequal treatment during property viewings. This text explains in clear language how to recognize discrimination, which evidence is helpful, and how to record incidents in writing. You will receive a practical checklist for documentation, a sample template letter to present to the landlord, and guidance on deadlines and competent courts such as the local court. The guide explains which legal bases (BGB)^[1] and the ZPO^[2] are relevant and which official forms may be used in proceedings. The goal is for you to exercise your rights as a tenant confidently and to know how to collect evidence, meet deadlines, and act legally if necessary. If needed, you will find information on filing lawsuits and advisory services.

What to do if you face discrimination at viewings?

If you experience unequal treatment during a property viewing, document the incident as quickly as possible. Record statements, behaviour and who was present. Legal clarification can take place before the local court; in appeals the regional court or the Federal Court of Justice may decide.^[3]

Immediate steps

• Collect evidence: names of witnesses, photos, messages and notes of conversations.
• Record the date and time (time) precisely.
• Take photos and videos (photo) of the property and of behaviour.
• Record witnesses with contact details and make short written statements.
• Send a template letter to the landlord; set a deadline and, if possible, send by registered mail.

Sample template letter

Dear [Name], on [Date] I attended a viewing at [Address]. During the viewing I was treated differently due to [characteristic]. Please confirm in writing the reasons for the decision. I ask for a reply by [Date, deadline]; otherwise I reserve the right to take further steps. Sincerely, [Name]

Further steps and deadlines

If the landlord does not respond or the practice continues, advisory centres and possibly legal action are the next steps. Pay particular attention to statutory deadlines and securing evidence.

• Contact local tenant advice or an advisory centre (hotline) for initial steps.
• Check litigation options at the local court (court) — eviction suits or injunctive relief are handled here.
• Submit letters within statutory deadlines and pay attention to deadlines for collecting evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is discrimination at viewings?

Unequal treatment during a property viewing, for example because of origin, gender, religion or family status.

Which evidence is most helpful?

Photos, video recordings, names of witnesses, exact time and date entries, and written statements or messages.

When should I go to the local court?

If out-of-court clarification and advice do not provide remedy, a lawsuit at the local court or civil action may be necessary.^[3]

How-To: Document discrimination

1. Record the date, time and all persons present immediately (time).
2. Collect photos, videos and messages (photo) and store originals securely.
3. Send a template letter with a clear deadline (notice) and document sending and receipt.
4. Seek advice and, if necessary, file a lawsuit at the competent local court (court).

Help and Support

• Hotline / Contact: Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)
• Forms: BGB online (Gesetze im Internet)
• Court information: Federal Court of Justice (BGH)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Bundesgerichtshof – Decisions and Information