Tenant: Prove Move with WBS in Germany
Many students in Germany must prove a move with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS), for example when signing a rental contract, applying for housing allowance, or for municipal housing allocation. As a tenant it is important to know which documents count, how to meet deadlines and which authorities are responsible. This article explains step by step which documents (registration certificate, handover protocol, rental contract, WBS application) are accepted as proof, how to write formal letters correctly and which deadlines apply. We list official laws and forms, show practical wording examples and give tips on how students can document their claim clearly to avoid issues with landlords or authorities in Germany. Pay special attention to registration and WBS application deadlines. Detailed checklists and template texts help prepare proof in a legally secure way.
What applies when proving the move with a WBS?
As a tenant, the basic duties and rights from tenancy law apply; relevant provisions can be found in the BGB [1]. The Wohnberechtigungsschein and funding rules are regulated in the housing promotion law [2]. If proof is required before authorities or court, the procedural rules of the ZPO apply [3] and in case of dispute the local court and higher instances are competent [4].
- Registration certificate or registration confirmation (registration at the residents' registration office).
- Signed rental contract with move-in date.
- Handover protocol with meter readings and condition of the flat.
- Application for issuing a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) at the responsible city or district administration.
- Receipts for moving costs or deposit receipts, if relevant.
Formal steps and deadlines
Submit the WBS application as early as possible and attach all proof documents in full so that deadlines are met. Authorities often also require a registration certificate and copies of the rental contract.
- Deadline: Check local application deadlines of your city administration.
- Re-registration: Register your new residence within the legally specified deadline.
- Report the move: Inform landlord and utilities (electricity, internet) in good time.
Which proofs help especially students?
Students should additionally enclose enrollment certificates, BAföG decisions or proof of matriculation if housing allocation or funding depends on them.
FAQ
- Which documents count as proof for the move?
- Proof includes registration certificate, rental contract, handover protocol, WBS application and, if applicable, receipts for moving expenses.
- Where do I apply for the WBS?
- The WBS is applied for at the responsible city or district administration; the forms can be found on the municipalities' websites.
- What do I do if a landlord does not accept the proof?
- Collect evidence, send a formal request for recognition and, if necessary, seek legal advice or contact the local court.
How-To
- Download the WBS application form from your city administration and complete it in full.
- Collect registration certificate, rental contract, handover protocol and receipts as copies.
- Submit the documents to the administration within the deadline and keep email or delivery receipts.
- If problems arise, contact the responsible authority or the local court for tenancy disputes.
Key Takeaways
- Complete documentation protects against disputes with landlords.
- Deadlines are crucial for recognition of the move.
