Social Housing & WBS: Tenant Guide Germany

As a family seeking social housing in Germany, a clear overview of the allocation process and the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) helps. This text explains in plain language which documents you need, which deadlines apply and which rights tenants have in case of delays or defects. We name relevant sections of tenancy law and show step by step how to apply for a WBS, what housing offers are typically allocated and where to find official forms. The goal is to make you more confident when applying, communicating with landlords and in court procedures in Germany.

What does the allocation process mean for families?

The allocation process determines how available social housing is distributed. Authorities check entitlement, urgency and household size. The requirements in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) and the local criteria of the city or state are decisive. Families should check early whether a WBS is necessary and which proofs are required.

Key terms explained

• WBS: Wohnberechtigungsschein — official certificate proving eligibility for subsidized housing.
• Allocation deadline: periods in which applications must be considered or updated.
• Rent & service charges: There are often limits for subsidized housing.
• Maintenance: Landlord duties to maintain habitability (§ 535 BGB).^[1]

Typical process flow

In many municipalities you register with an allocation office or via a central housing portal. The allocation office checks entitlement and priority, matches apartment size to household size and notifies applicants of suitable offers. A valid WBS increases the chance of consideration.

What families should do concretely

• Apply for a WBS: Ask your city administration for the form and income limits.^[4]
• Keep documents ready: pay slips, IDs, certificate of no rent arrears and birth certificates.
• Observe deadlines: Many offers must be confirmed within a few days.
• Keep in contact: Ask the allocation office and document every contact.

Rights in case of problems with landlord or allocation

If promised repairs are not carried out or allocation does not follow the rules, you should know your rights under the BGB and the Code of Civil Procedure. For rent reductions due to defects see § 536 BGB; for court actions the local Amtsgericht is usually competent.^[1][3]

FAQ

Who is entitled to a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)?

Entitlement depends on household income, household size and local rules; check your municipality's requirements.

How long does allocation of a social apartment take?

It varies greatly: weeks to months are possible, depending on urgency and availability.

What to do if WBS application is rejected?

You can file an objection or add missing documents; seek advice from the city administration.

How-To

1. Check eligibility and income limits based on your municipality's information.
2. Complete the WBS form fully and submit all required proofs.^[4]
3. Keep documents ready: submit applications to allocation offices or online portals and save confirmations.
4. If problems arise, contact the allocation office, use mediation options or seek legal advice.

Key legal bases

The main rules for tenancy are in the German Civil Code (BGB, §§ 535–580a). The Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) governs housing promotion. In disputes, civil procedure rules (ZPO) and local courts apply.^[1][2][3]

Help and Support / Resources

• BGB §§535 ff. – Tenancy law (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
• Court information and jurisdiction (justiz.de)

1. [1] BGB §§535–580a – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (gesetze-im-internet.de)
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) (gesetze-im-internet.de)
3. [3] Amtsgerichtliche Zuständigkeit und Verfahrensinfos (justiz.de)
4. [4] Wohnberechtigungsschein – Application information and forms (Berlin.de)