Urgency Levels for Tenant Families in Germany
Many tenant families in Germany face the question of how to reliably prove an urgency level for social housing or a housing entitlement certificate (WBS). This guide explains step by step which documents are commonly required, which deadlines must be observed and how to compile evidence such as medical certificates, registration certificates or rent lists. The language remains simple and practical so that non-lawyers can correctly complete forms and keep appointments with authorities. We also explain which courts are competent in case of dispute and which sections of the BGB or WoFG are relevant, so tenants can better understand and enforce their rights in Germany. At the end you will find a short guide to filling out applications and tips on how to formulate objections and monitor deadlines.
What are urgency levels?
Urgency levels are used by municipalities or housing companies to prioritize applications for social housing. A higher level can be granted in cases of acute housing need, health reasons, or particular social circumstances. The legal foundations often relevant here can be found in nationwide regulations such as the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) and the tenancy provisions in the German Civil Code (BGB).[1][2]
Which documents do you need?
Prepare as complete documents as possible; the better the evidence, the easier the authority's review. Common proofs are:
- Document: current rental agreement or rental certificate
- Document: registration certificate / registration confirmation
- Document: medical certificate in case of health urgency
- Document: proof of income and social benefit notices
- Document: evidence of vulnerability (e.g. homelessness, precarious situation)
Deadlines and forms
Many municipalities require standardized forms or applications for classification. Submit applications early and note any response or objection deadlines from the authority. Incomplete applications delay processing or lead to rejections.
- Deadline: check municipal application deadlines and record them
- Notice: use official application forms or fill out online
- Document: attach copies of all evidence
Practical example: How to complete a WBS application
For example, a family in a small flat with a chronically ill person applies for a higher urgency: collect the medical certificate, recent rent payments, registration certificate and income proofs. Enter the exact housing situation in the application, describe the health impairment and attach all documents as copies. Clearly state your contact address and phone number.
What to do if the application is rejected?
First check the rejection notice for formal information and deadlines for objection or legal action. Submit a written objection and justify it with new or additional evidence. If the authority does not respond, judicial review is possible; in the first instance, local courts (Amtsgerichte) are usually competent for civil and tenancy disputes.[3]
FAQ
- Who decides on urgency levels?
- The competent municipal housing authority or the responsible housing company decides based on the submitted documents.
- What deadline applies for objections against a rejection?
- The deadline is stated in the rejection notice; in many cases it is 1 month from service, check the specific notice.
- Can a lawyer or advisory center help?
- Yes, advisory centers and lawyers can assist with wording and deadline compliance; many municipalities also offer social counseling.
How-To
- Collect all relevant documents (rental agreement, certificates, registration documents).
- Fill out the official application form of the municipality completely.
- Observe all deadlines for submission and objection.
- Contact the competent authority in case of questions and request confirmations of receipt.
- If necessary, prepare an objection and consider legal steps before the local court.
Help and Support / Resources
- Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - Tenancy law
- Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) - decisions
