Moving with WBS: Tenant Guide for Germany

As a tenant with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) in Germany, you need clear, practical information for searching for an apartment and moving. This guide explains in plain language what rights and obligations households with a WBS have, which forms are important, how to apply for subsidies, and which deadlines to observe. It is aimed especially at families and single parents who need support with planning, re-registration, deposit questions and handover procedures. Practical tips help you avoid common pitfalls and gather the necessary documentation so that the move proceeds legally secure and with as little stress as possible.

What is the WBS and who is eligible?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein is an official document that confirms entitlement to subsidized housing under the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz. It is issued by the competent housing authority or housing office. Check your eligibility based on income limits and household size; the requirements are usually state-specific but regulated federally by the WoFG.^[2]

Before the move: apartment search and documents

Collect all proofs early: WBS, proof of income, certificate of no rent arrears, if applicable benefit notices (e.g., housing allowance). Prepare an application folder with simple documents so landlords or housing companies can quickly check your eligibility.

• Keep a copy of the WBS and check its validity period.
• Organize proof of income (pay slips, notices).
• Include a certificate of no rent arrears or bank statements.
• Copy ID or residence permit.

Forms, templates and legal bases

Important legal foundations can be found in the German Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a^[1] for landlord and tenant duties and in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[2] for subsidy rules. Required forms are often local; ask your housing office for the WBS application and for templates for termination letters or handover reports.

Practical moving planning

Plan the date, transport and re-registrations: change of address at the registration office, deregistration/registration with utilities, check child benefit or daycare notices. Pay attention to notice periods in your old lease and the handover appointment with a handover report.

• Arrange the handover appointment and prepare a handover report.
• Inform utilities (electricity, water, heating) in time.
• Plan re-registration at the residents' registration office.

On moving day and after moving in

Use a handover report, document meter readings and take photos of condition and defects. Report necessary repairs to the landlord in writing immediately and request confirmation. If you encounter problems (e.g., refused defect repairs), legal action can be taken at the local court (Amtsgericht); tenancy disputes are usually heard there in the first instance.^[3]

FAQ

What is the difference between WBS and housing allowance?

The WBS allows you to apply for subsidized housing; housing allowance is a subsidy towards rent for eligible low-income households.

How do I apply for a WBS?

You apply for the WBS at the competent housing office of your municipality; they also provide the list of required documents.

What notice periods apply when a tenant terminates?

As a rule, the notice period is three months unless the rental agreement specifies otherwise; fixed-term contracts follow special rules.

How-To

1. Collect documents (WBS, proof of income, ID).
2. Contact the housing office for WBS application and deadlines.
3. Search for subsidized apartments and submit the application folder.
4. Plan move date, re-registrations, and prepare a handover report with photos.

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB: Provisions on tenancy law (§§535–580a)
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
• Information on local courts (Amtsgerichte)

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet: Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet: Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Justiz: Information on local courts (Amtsgerichte)