Tenant Rights for AGG Complaints in Germany

What tenants in big cities need to know

As a tenant living in a German city, you have rights under the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) against discrimination; additionally, general provisions of tenancy law regulate landlord and tenant duties.^[2][1]If an AGG complaint contains formal errors, deadlines, clear documentation and correct addressing are especially important. This section explains in practical terms which steps tenants can take and which courts are competent.

Practical: Correcting formal errors in an AGG complaint

If a complaint is incomplete or has formal defects, tenants should proceed systematically. First document which information is missing and which evidence is available. Use photo, email and record evidence and note dates. Consider a written supplement or correction of the complaint; if in doubt, a quick visit to the local court or advice can help.^[3]

Concrete steps

• Check all deadlines and set realistic dates to gather documents.
• Collect evidence: photos, messages, witness statements and payment receipts.
• Create or supplement written forms clearly and legibly; date and sign each submission.
• If necessary, submit the corrected complaint to the competent authority or the local court.
• Seek legal advice or a counseling center if there are uncertainties.

Typical forms and examples

The following official forms and templates are relevant for tenants; each is briefly explained with a practical example.

• Template: Objection to termination (sample letter from the Federal Ministry) — When: On receipt of a termination with discriminatory reasons; Example: You add the reasons and attach evidence by registered mail.
• Payment order (Mahnverfahren) — When: In payment disputes; Example: You apply for a payment order if payments are missing and the landlord asserts claims.
• Statement of claim for eviction (local court) — When: If the landlord demands eviction; Example: The statement of claim is filed by the landlord, you can file a counterstatement and submit counterevidence.

FAQ

What can I do if my AGG complaint contains formal errors?

Check the missing information, collect evidence and submit a written supplement; mark deadlines and document the submission.

Which courts are responsible for tenancy and discrimination disputes?

Generally local courts (Amtsgerichte) are responsible for tenancy cases; for appeals the regional courts (Landgerichte) and for revision the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).^[3]

Which deadlines are important?

Pay attention to filing deadlines for complaints and the legally regulated deadlines under the BGB and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).^[1]

How-To

1. Read the original complaint fully and note all formal defects.
2. Gather evidence: photos, emails, witnesses and payment receipts.
3. Check deadlines and make a schedule for supplements.
4. Draft a clearly structured supplement or correction and date it.
5. Submit the correction to the competent authority or the local court and document the delivery.

Key Takeaways

• Tenants are protected from discrimination under the AGG.
• Good documentation and timely response are crucial.
• Local courts are often the first point of contact for tenancy disputes.

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
• [2] Gesetze im Internet: Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG)
• [3] Federal Ministry of Justice: Information on courts

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Allgemeines Gleichbehandlungsgesetz (AGG)
3. [3] Federal Ministry of Justice: Information on courts