Extend WBS on Time for Tenants in Germany
Many tenants in Germany face the question of how to renew their Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) on time. Errors in the application, missing documents or missed deadlines can result in losing entitlement to subsidised housing or increased pressure to move. This guide explains in clear steps which deadlines apply, which documents authorities require and how to avoid common mistakes. We show practical examples, a checklist to tick off and concrete steps for contacting the housing authority. At the end you will find a short guide for the authority visit and notes on your rights under the BGB and the Housing Promotion Act in Germany. Read the checklist and collect documents early to avoid stress during the procedure.
Why renewing the WBS on time matters
The WBS secures access to subsidised housing. Without a valid WBS, tenants can be disadvantaged in allocation or lose subsidised apartments. Authorities often set strict deadlines; if you react too late you risk additional demands or losing priority allocations. Therefore check expiry dates and required proofs early.
Checklist: Documents and deadlines
Use this checklist to plan the renewal process. Add local requirements from your city administration.
- Check deadline: submit the application at least 6 weeks before expiry.
- Forms: fill in the current WBS application of the responsible authority.
- Collect proofs: attach income statements, rental contract and identity card.
- Cost proofs: if needed, include certificates of maintenance payments or social benefits.
- Contact: clarify deadlines and requirements by phone or e-mail with the housing authority.
- Make copies: present originals and keep copies for your file.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
The most frequent reasons for refusals or delays are incomplete forms, outdated income proofs and missed submission dates. Avoid these mistakes through structured preparation and timely communication with the authority.
- Incomplete forms: check before sending that all fields are filled.
- Outdated proofs: ensure income documents are not older than the authority requires.
- Deadline misses: plan buffers and submit the application early.
- No documentation of calls: note date, contact person and content of inquiries.
What to do if you have problems with the application
If the authority rejects the application or requests additional documents, act promptly. File an objection if you consider the decision incorrect and prepare file copies for a possible procedure. The local court (Amtsgericht) is often competent for tenancy and housing disputes.[3]
FAQ
- How early should I submit the WBS application?
- Ideally at least six weeks before expiry, because processing times and additional requests require time.
- Which documents are most commonly requested?
- Identity card, current rental contract, income statements and, if applicable, proof of social benefits or maintenance payments.[1]
- Who is responsible if a legal dispute arises?
- Tenancy and housing disputes are initially handled by the local courts; administrative law may also be involved for subsidy questions.[3]
How-To
- Check the date: note your WBS expiry and set a reminder six weeks before.
- Get the form: download the current application from the responsible housing authority or request it by e-mail.
- Gather documents: collect ID, rental contract and income proofs.
- Contact the authority: clarify open questions by phone to avoid follow-up requests.
- Submit the application: hand it in personally, by post or electronically and obtain confirmation of receipt.
- File records: keep confirmations and copies and document deadlines.
Help and Support / Resources
- [1] BGB (Civil Code) - Gesetze im Internet
- [2] WoFG (Housing Promotion Act) - Gesetze im Internet
- [3] Local courts and court organisation - Deutsche Justiz
- [4] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - Decisions
