Tenants: Documents & Deadlines for Families in Germany
Tenant families in Germany often face many questions during the application and allocation process: Which documents do the authority or landlord require? Which deadlines must I meet so that a WBS application or a housing application does not expire? This practical guide explains which documents families typically need, how to properly collect rental certificates and income proofs, and which statutory deadlines are relevant. You will receive clear step-by-step tips on proper proof, notes on formal requirements and examples so that your application remains complete and on time. Definitions like WBS or eviction suit are kept simple and accompanied by official sources.[1]
Important documents for families
The following list shows typical documents requested in allocation procedures and for the WBS. Always check the specific list of the issuing office or the landlord.
- Identity cards or passports of all persons moving in
- Birth certificates or child birth proofs
- Income proofs for the last three months (pay slips, notices)
- Certificate of no rental arrears or payment receipts
- WBS application or certificate (if already issued)
Deadlines & dates
Deadlines are crucial: Applications are often valid only for a limited time or certain proofs must be provided within a few days. If you miss a deadline, the application can be rejected. Find out early which deadlines the issuing body sets.
- Deadline to submit complete application documents (usually specified in the announcement)
- Deadline for additional requests: submission of missing evidence within the specified days
- Deadlines for objections or legal remedies after rejection (observe court deadlines)
How to collect proofs correctly
Quality of proofs matters: stamps, signatures and dates on certificates increase acceptance. Photograph each document in good resolution, name files clearly (e.g. "rental_agreement_max_meier.pdf") and keep a short inventory of submitted documents.
- Originals vs. copies: Ask whether copies by email are sufficient or originals are required
- Certifications: Only if expressly required, e.g. for foreign documents
- Date security: Obtain confirmations of receipt when handing in personally or by email
Forms and typical applications
Official forms include the WBS application and possibly landlord-provided templates. For legal guidance, §§ 535–580a BGB are relevant.[1] Rules on funding allocation practice are set out in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).[2]
What to do if documents are missing?
If a document is not available on time, document your efforts: requests to employers, authority confirmations or proof of electronic applications help show diligence. If deadlines are looming, contact the allocation office promptly and ask for an extension.
FAQ
- Which documents do I need for the WBS?
- Typically identity card, income proofs, rental agreement and proof of household members; exact requirements vary by office.
- How long is an application deadline usually?
- It varies: some announcements give a few days, others several weeks. Pay attention to the stated deadline.
- Who do I contact if there are problems with the allocation office?
- Contact the responsible officer first, then the municipality's complaints office. For legal questions, the local court (Amtsgericht) is responsible; higher courts include the regional court (Landgericht) and the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).[3]
How-To
- Read the announcement carefully and note the stated deadlines.
- Assemble a complete folder with IDs, income proofs and WBS documents.
- Submit documents on time by the required method and request confirmation of receipt.
- If additional documents are requested, submit them immediately and document the submission.
Help and Support / Resources
- Gesetze im Internet — Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
- Gesetze im Internet — Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
- Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — Decisions
