Tenants in Germany: Discrimination by Origin

If you are a tenant in Germany being disadvantaged because of your origin, it is distressing—and legally unacceptable. This text explains which indications can serve as evidence, how to document incidents, which official forms and deadlines matter, and when a complaint to the landlord or an application to the local court (Amtsgericht) is appropriate. We show practical steps on how to recognize discrimination, secure evidence and, if necessary, prepare legal action. Language remains clear, with concrete steps for tenants, including notes on relevant BGB provisions and courts. Read on.

What to do if you suspect discrimination by origin?

Practically, start with careful documentation and a clear order: secure evidence, inform the landlord, set deadlines if needed and consider legal steps. Check the relevant legal bases, such as tenancy duties and protections in the Civil Code (BGB) ^[1].

It is important to remain factual and collect evidence before making accusations. A written complaint to the landlord with concrete examples and a deadline can often provide initial relief. If that is insufficient, the Amtsgericht is the competent authority for many civil rental disputes.

Which evidence helps?

• Written messages, e‑mails or SMS (evidence) with discriminatory content
• Photos with dates, notes (evidence) and screenshots
• Payment receipts, receipts or bank statements showing rent payments (rent, payment)
• Witness statements with contact details (contact) and written declarations
• Contract clauses, written requests or official notices (form)

Keep copies safe and maintain a simple chronology of events. Record date, time, participants and describe precisely what was said or done. Secure digital files in a place not accessible to the landlord.

When informing the landlord, do so preferably in writing and documented (registered mail or e‑mail with read receipt). Set a reasonable deadline for clarification. If templates or forms are needed, official templates from the Federal Ministry of Justice can help ^[2].

If matters proceed to court, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible; appeals go to the regional court (Landgericht) and possibly the Federal Court of Justice (BGH). In proceedings, the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) apply for filing and evidence. Consider initial legal advice and collect all documents before filing a lawsuit.

FAQ

Can I defend myself if I am disadvantaged as a tenant because of my origin?

Yes. You can document, formally request the landlord to act, and if the disadvantage continues, consider legal steps such as filing a complaint or lawsuit.

Which deadlines matter when I file a complaint?

Set a clear, reasonable deadline in your letter (e.g. 14 days) for remedy or response; in court proceedings the deadlines of the ZPO apply.

Where can I turn if I are unsure?

Seek advice from official bodies, review BGB regulations and consider consulting a lawyer.

How-To

1. Collect evidence: messages, photos, payment proofs and witness statements.
2. Write a formal complaint to the landlord with a clear deadline.
3. Observe deadlines: set a reasonable deadline for response and document all dates.
4. File a lawsuit at the competent local court (Amtsgericht) if necessary.
5. Prepare your documents for the hearing and name witnesses.

Help and Support

• Civil Code (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Federal Ministry of Justice – Information and forms
• Justice portal – Information on courts (Amtsgericht)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet — BGB §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Bundesministerium der Justiz — Formulare und Hinweise
3. [3] Justizportal — Informationen zu Gerichten (Amtsgericht)