Tenants: Social Housing Allocation in Germany

Many tenants in Germany wonder how the allocation process for social housing and the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) works. This guide explains step by step which requirements families must meet, which forms you need and which deadlines apply. It shows how to submit applications, what rights you have as a tenant and when you may need legal help from the local court or an advice centre. Practical examples help understanding, and I list official forms and authorities you can contact. The aim is to give you clarity so you can better assess chances for a social flat and confidently assert your claims. Read on for concrete action steps, deadlines and where to get forms.

How does the allocation process work?

The allocation of social housing is governed by housing funding law and local regulations; your tenancy rights and landlord duties are set out in the BGB (§§ 535–580a).^[1] In many cities the housing office manages waiting lists and allocations, with the WBS playing a central role.^[3]

Which documents do you need?

Before applying, you typically collect the following documents:

• Application for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS).
• Income statements for the last 12 months.
• ID card or passport.
• Proofs of rent payments or a certificate from the previous landlord.

Forms and authorities

The WBS application is a typical form; exact requirements are in the Housing Promotion Act.^[3] Municipal housing offices are responsible; in disputes about rights or allocation, court procedures may be relevant and are governed by the Civil Procedure Code.^[2]

What to do about rejection or long waiting times?

If your application is rejected or you wait for an allocation, first review the rejection reasons and deadlines for objection or legal action under the Civil Procedure Code.^[2] Often a written request for missing documents or a reasoned objection to the housing office helps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for social housing?

Families with incomes below certain limits are eligible; exact rules vary by state and are set out in the WoFG.^[3]

How long does allocation take?

This varies greatly; waiting times range from weeks to years depending on region and availability.

Where to go in case of disputes over allocation?

For legal disputes you can sue at the local court; prior advice and a formal objection are recommended.

How-To

1. Check within 14 days whether you meet the income and household requirements for the WBS.
2. Gather all evidence: income statements, ID and rental confirmations.
3. Submit the application to your housing office; use online forms if available.
4. Await the decision and observe deadlines for objections.
5. In case of rejection consider legal action at the local court or seek legal advice.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
• Application for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) — Berlin example

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Application for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) — service.berlin.de