Appeal Deadlines & Documents for Tenants in Germany

As a tenant in a shared flat (WG) in Germany, you may be eligible for housing allowance or rent subsidies, but a refusal is not the end: you can file an appeal. This text explains in plain language which documents authorities require, which deadlines apply and how an appeal should be structured. The goal is to give you concrete steps to collect evidence, draft a clear appeal letter and meet the deadline so your case has better chances on review. For tenancy questions the Civil Code (BGB) can be relevant, and housing allowance rules govern administrative handling.^[1][2]

Which authorities and laws apply?

Housing allowance and rent subsidies are handled by the local housing allowance office or social welfare office; a notice is an administrative act and can be challenged by appeal. Tenancy issues are governed by the German Civil Code (BGB); procedural matters follow civil or administrative procedure rules. If litigation follows, local courts (Amtsgericht) are often involved.^[1][2]

Important documents

• Appeal form or appeal letter with date and signature (form)
• Copy of the decision (notice)
• Tenancy agreement and sublease agreements (evidence)
• Proofs of rent and utility payments (rent/payments)
• ID or registration certificate and income documents (evidence)

Deadlines and procedure

Usually the decision specifies an appeal deadline. If no deadline is stated, general administrative rules apply; still, act promptly. Filing an appeal in time does not always suspend enforcement automatically, but it ensures re-examination. Attach all relevant evidence and document the sending method (e.g. registered mail).

How to file an appeal

Steps to file a formal and timely appeal:

1. Draft a short appeal letter with date, name, address, file number and reference to the decision.
2. Briefly state your reasons and attach evidence such as the tenancy agreement and payment proofs (evidence).
3. Send the appeal within the stated deadline by registered mail or deliver it in person (deadline/mail).
4. Record any phone conversations with the housing office: date, staff name, and summary (contact).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a shared flat (WG) apply for housing allowance?

Yes, residents of a shared flat can apply for housing allowance or rent subsidy depending on income and rent; check eligibility at your local housing office.

How long is the appeal deadline?

The deadline is stated in the decision; if not, the applicable administrative deadline applies. Act quickly, typically within a few weeks.

What form should an appeal take?

An appeal should be written, include date, signature, file number and a short reasoning; sample letters help with structure.

How-To

1. Gather decision copy, tenancy agreement and payment proofs (form/evidence).
2. Write a short appeal letter with reasons and signature (tip).
3. Send the appeal within the deadline by registered mail or in person (deadline/mail).
4. Keep proof of sending and note contact persons (contact).

Help and Support / Resources

• Information on housing allowance at bundesregierung.de
• Housing Allowance Act (WoFG) on gesetze-im-internet.de
• Court responsibilities and contacts on justiz.de

1. [1] Housing Allowance Act (WoFG) – gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] German Civil Code (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Court responsibilities – justiz.de