Tenant Rights in Germany: Report Discriminatory Ads

As a tenant in Germany, you can take action against discriminatory housing ads. This text clearly explains which rights you have, when an ad is unlawful and how to report incidents within deadlines. I describe concrete steps: securing evidence (photos, screenshots, contacts), required deadlines, responsible authorities as well as sample forms and court options. The guide helps you draft a complaint letter, report the violation to the competent public order office or equal opportunities office and, if necessary, enforce an injunction. The goal is that you can act confidently, informed and without unnecessary delay. For situations in large cities you will find tips for quick reporting options and local contacts.

What to do about discriminatory ads?

First check whether the ad violates laws or general equal treatment rules. In tenancy law, the provisions of the Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a are particularly relevant^[1]. In parallel, the General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) can protect against discrimination based on origin, religion, gender or disability^[2]. If you find a discriminatory formulation, immediately secure evidence: screenshot, date, platform and possibly contact details of the advertiser.

• Collect evidence: photos, screenshots and record the date.
• Report the ad: send a complaint to the platform or the responsible public order office.
• Observe deadlines: act immediately so you do not lose rights.
• Use forms: have official complaint forms or lawsuit templates ready.

Forms and authorities

There is no single nationwide form for complaints, but the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency provides concrete contact points and guidance on reporting discrimination and offers support for complaint procedures^[3]. Practical forms that may become necessary in cases include:

• Complaint form of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency: for reporting discrimination and obtaining advice.
• Lawsuit form (civil): filed at the local court, e.g. for injunctions or claims for damages.
• Application for legal advice / legal aid: if you need legal support, check with the local court.

How a report works in practice

1) Collect evidence and note time, platform and exact wording. 2) Send a formal complaint to the platform and in parallel to the public order office or equality office. 3) Request removal and an injunction; document every response. 4) If necessary, consider legal action at the local court (injunction, damages).

FAQ

Can I report every discriminatory wording?

Yes, if the ad excludes or disadvantages people because of protected characteristics, you can file a report.

Which authority is responsible?

Often local public order offices or equality offices are responsible; in many cases the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency can also provide advice.

Do I need a lawyer immediately?

Not necessarily: secure evidence first and use legal advice services; then decide whether to involve a lawyer.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: make screenshots and save metadata (date, platform).
2. Write a complaint: briefly state the facts, list evidence and request removal.
3. Seek contact: report the case to the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency or the local equality office.
4. Consider legal steps: if necessary, file an injunction or civil action at the local court.

Help and Support

• Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency
• Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Justice portals and local courts (forms)

1. [1] Civil Code (BGB) — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] General Equal Treatment Act (AGG) — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency — Complaint information