Moving with WBS in Germany - Guide for Tenants

Moving with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in Germany brings specific deadlines and requirements. As a tenant, you should plan your application, apartment viewings and registrations early and follow the official form requirements of the municipal housing offices. This guide explains practically which steps must be completed during the move, which official forms are required and how to meet deadlines to avoid additional charges or delays. We cover important topics such as the rental contract, handover protocol, damage documentation, applications for public housing support and tips on dealing with the landlord. The language remains clear so that non-legal readers can recognize and act on their rights and obligations as tenants in Germany. Get started now.

Checklist: Moving with WBS

• Check and submit the WBS application at the responsible housing office.
• Clarify allocation and moving deadlines early.
• Read the rental contract: note specifics for social housing.
• Request a handover protocol and complete it fully at the handover.
• Create damage and defect documentation with photos and dates.
• Plan registration with the residents' registration office and utility providers in good time.
• Check if additional subsidy applications or housing allowance are necessary.

Important official forms include the local application for Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and standard letters such as a tenant termination letter or handover protocol; many templates and forms are provided by your municipality or the responsible housing office, and some general guidance is available on ministry pages.^[6]

Rights and Obligations

The Civil Code (BGB) regulates tenants' basic duties such as maintenance and reduction of rent for defects.^[1] In disputes over eviction or payment, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) governs court actions.^[2] Specific rules on housing promotion and allocation of social housing are in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG), which defines eligibility for a WBS.^[3] Billing issues for operating costs and heating fall under the Betriebskostenverordnung (BetrKV) and the Heizkostenverordnung (HeizKV) and may affect subsequent claims.^[4][5]

FAQ

Who needs a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)?

A WBS is required if you seek a social apartment and meet the income conditions for subsidized housing; exact requirements are governed by the WoFG and local housing promotion authorities.^[3]

How do I apply for a WBS?

You apply for a WBS at the competent housing office of your city or municipality; you will need proof of income, household size and an identity document. Use the local form from the housing office.

What should I do in a dispute with the landlord?

Document defects, request verifiable remedies and, if necessary, contact the local court if legal clarification is required; observe deadlines for claims and appeals.^[7]

How-To

1. Check immediately whether you need a WBS and which documents the housing office requires.
2. Apply for the WBS early to meet allocation and application deadlines.
3. Arrange viewings and prepare all required proof documents.
4. Only sign the rental contract once all conditions are checked and handover protocols are ready.
5. Register changes of address, utilities and housing allowance in time.
6. In case of disputes, collect documentation and consider court steps at the local court.^[7]

Help and Support / Resources

• [1] WoFG — Wohnraumförderungsgesetz — Gesetze im Internet
• [2] BGB — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch — Gesetze im Internet
• [3] Information on courts and jurisdictions — Justiz

1. [1] BGB §§ 535–580a — Gesetze im Internet
2. [2] ZPO — Code of Civil Procedure — Gesetze im Internet
3. [3] WoFG — Wohnraumförderungsgesetz — Gesetze im Internet
4. [4] BetrKV — Betriebskostenverordnung — Gesetze im Internet
5. [5] HeizKV — Heizkostenverordnung — Gesetze im Internet
6. [6] Termination letter templates — Federal Ministry of Justice (BMJ)
7. [7] Local court (Amtsgericht) — Jurisdiction information — Justiz
8. [8] Federal Court of Justice (BGH) — Decisions and precedents