Moving with WBS: Tenant Checklist in Germany

Many tenants in Germany face the question of how to correctly prove a move with a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). This text explains in plain language which documents authorities and landlords commonly require, which deadlines to observe and how to securely document formal evidence. We cover important legal foundations and provide a practical checklist for moving into social housing. The goal is that you as a tenant know the necessary steps, collect the right documents and can demonstrate your claims and obligations clearly so that the move goes smoothly.

What the WBS means for tenants

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) entitles you to rent subsidised social housing and is issued after an income and household check. As a tenant you need the WBS to be eligible for subsidised housing; the exact allocation rules are regulated in the housing promotion law.^[2] At the same time, the general rights and obligations from the rental agreement and the German Civil Code remain in force, such as obligations to pay rent and rights in case of defects.^[1]

Checklist: Moving with WBS

• Apply for WBS: request the form from the responsible authority and complete it fully.
• Gather proofs: organize payslips, notices, ID and the rental contract copies.
• Submit forms: hand in the application on time by appointment or post at the municipality.
• Observe deadlines: plan termination periods of the current lease and processing times of the authority.
• Arrange securities: prepare deposit and first month’s rent in time.
• Document apartment condition: take photos and create a handover protocol.
• Report address changes: inform the registration office, employer and providers.

Forms and examples for tenants

Important forms include the WBS application from the relevant municipality, a termination letter for the old lease and handover protocols. A termination letter should contain date, rental property, termination effective date and your signature; the German Civil Code regulates formal termination periods.^[1] Authorities usually provide WBS forms online or at the service counter.

Rights in case of problems during the move

If disputes arise over deadlines, defects or deposit refunds, local courts (Amtsgericht) are often responsible for tenancy disputes. For court proceedings, the rules of civil procedure apply.^[3] Before legal action, documentation and, where available, advice from social counselling centres or initial legal consultations are recommended.

FAQ

Who issues the WBS and how long does it take?

The WBS is issued by the responsible city or district administration; processing time varies, expect several weeks.

Which documents do I need for the WBS?

Typical documents are income proofs, ID, registration office extract and rental contract or housing offer.

Do I have to show the WBS to the new landlord immediately?

Yes, landlords often require proof before signing the contract or at move-in.

Anleitung

1. Apply for WBS online or at the office and attach all required proofs.
2. Check termination periods and send termination to the previous landlord in time.
3. Take photos of the old rental and prepare a handover protocol.
4. Confirm move date and report address changes in time.

Key takeaways

• Apply early for the WBS to avoid timing issues.
• Complete documentation simplifies proof to authorities and landlords.
• Observe lease termination periods to prevent double costs.

Help and Support / Resources

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
• Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) – court procedures

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§ 535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de