Tenant Rights for Discriminatory Ads in Germany

Many tenants in Germany encounter housing ads that exclude people based on origin, marital status, religion, disability or income. Such ads can be unlawful and violate the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG). As a tenant you should know which deadlines apply, which evidence matters and which official bodies and courts you can contact. This guide explains in simple terms how to recognise discriminatory ads, document them, file a complaint with the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency and, if necessary, sue at the local court. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide and official contact points.

What to do about a discriminatory ad?

If you find an ad that excludes certain groups, act promptly: secure evidence, note deadlines and inform the competent authorities. Discriminatory wording can have civil and administrative consequences.

• Document the ad immediately with date, screenshot and URL.
• Save relevant communication with the landlord by e-mail or chat.
• Check deadlines: complaints and lawsuits should be filed as early as possible.
• Submit a complaint to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency for advice and mediation.^[2]
• Consider an injunction or civil action before the local court.^[3]

Forms and legal basis

The main legal bases are the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) and the civil law provisions in the German Civil Code (BGB) on tenancies. The AGG regulates discrimination in access to goods and services such as housing and gives affected persons claims for injunctive relief and damages.^[1]

• Complaint form of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency: use the official form to describe the facts and request mediation.^[2]
• Injunction proceedings at the local court: there is no single nationwide “standard form” for every claim; a written complaint with facts and evidence is often sufficient.

FAQ

Is a discriminatory housing ad illegal?

Yes, if it excludes certain groups from access to housing, it may violate the AGG and give rise to civil claims.^[1]

How quickly must I act?

Secure evidence immediately; formal complaints or lawsuits should be prepared without undue delay.

Where can I turn for help?

Contact the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency for advice and mediation and consider civil action at the competent local court.^[2][3]

How-To

1. Document: take screenshots, note date and the exact ad text.
2. Get advice: contact the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency or a tenant legal advice service.
3. File a complaint: complete the official complaint form and attach evidence.
4. Consider court action: prepare a civil claim at the competent local court if mediation fails.

Key Takeaways

• Early documentation strengthens your case with authorities and courts.
• Use the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agencys complaint form as a first formal step.
• If mediation fails, the local court is the venue for civil claims.

Help and Support / Resources

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency — complaint form and advice
• General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) — Gesetze im Internet
• Justice portal — information on local courts

1. [1] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency — complaint form and advice
3. [3] Justice portal — information on local courts