Tenants: Urgency Levels for Families in Germany

As a tenant in Germany, correctly proving the urgency of a housing situation can be decisive, for example when allocating social housing or applying for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This text explains in clear language which documents authorities and housing offices accept, how to document damage or hazards and which deadlines must be observed. The guide focuses on families: which information about family size, health issues or imminent homelessness is particularly relevant. You receive practical steps, sample documents and guidance on when legal action at the local court may be appropriate. The aim is to give you, as a tenant, confidence to assert your rights effectively in Germany.

What are urgency levels?

Urgency levels classify how quickly a family needs housing or support. Municipalities and housing offices examine criteria such as imminent homelessness, health risks or special social emergencies. Legal bases for tenancy and landlord obligations are found in the Civil Code (BGB).^[1]

Which documents help?

• Medical certificates and expert reports (evidence): date, diagnosis and signature to prove health risks.
• Proof of family size (evidence): birth certificates, registration certificates or custody documents.
• Photos and logs of housing damage (repair): mold, lack of heating or water problems with dates.
• Correspondence with landlord and authorities (notice/form): complaints, reminders and responses as a chronology.
• Deadline and appointment documentation (time): when defects were reported and deadlines for remedies.

WBS and application

Families with urgent need can apply for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) at the housing office; the rules are set out in the Housing Promotion Act.^[2] The "application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)" is a standardized form in many municipalities: you state family size, income and special reasons (e.g. health limitations). Attach copies of all documents and note which originals can be shown on request. If unsure, ask the housing office which forms are required in your city.

Procedure in case of dispute or eviction

If the landlord does not respond or an eviction is threatened, tenancy provisions in the BGB and procedural rules in the ZPO apply.^[1][3] In serious cases, Federal Court of Justice decisions may be relevant.^[4] It is important to observe deadlines and carry out formal steps in a documented way.

• Send a written defect notice to the landlord (notice/form) and set a response deadline; if possible, send by registered mail.
• Contact the housing office or social services (contact/help) for emergency accommodation or bridging assistance.
• In case of imminent eviction, seek legal advice and check objection or lawsuit deadlines at the local court (court).

FAQ

How do I apply for priority because of immediate danger to children?

Describe the danger in the application, attach medical certificates, school confirmations and photos, and state that protection for children is necessary; present these documents to the housing office.

What is the difference between WBS and social housing?

The WBS is an entitlement certificate that creates eligibility; social housing are concrete offers for which this certificate is often required.

Do I need to hire a lawyer immediately?

Not always; in case of deadline problems or eviction threats, legal advice is highly recommended, especially when children or health are involved.

How-To

1. Collect all proofs (medical certificates, birth certificates, photos) and create a clear list.
2. Fill out the application for the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and attach copies of the documents.
3. Submit the application to the housing office and, if possible, arrange an appointment for personal clarification.
4. If authorities do not respond: obtain legal advice and consider the possibility of an urgent application at the local court.

Help and Support / Resources

• Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
• Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official site

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO)
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) – Decisions