WBS & Cooperatives: Student Tenants in Germany

Many students in Germany look for affordable housing and encounter terms like the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)^[3] and housing cooperatives. This guide explains in clear language how the WBS works, what rights tenants have, how cooperatives for students are organized, and which steps are necessary to apply or to acquire a cooperative share. I describe practical deadlines, required forms, typical eligibility conditions and name the authorities responsible for disputes. The goal is to enable students as tenants in Germany to submit applications correctly and to better understand their rights within the tenancy. At the end you will find FAQs, a step-by-step guide to the WBS application and advice on what to do if repairs are needed or there is a termination.

What is the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)?

The WBS is an official document that gives eligible households access to subsidized housing. Eligibility, income limits and concrete design are governed by regional regulations and the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[2]. For students the WBS is important when they are entitled to social housing or subsidized offers in cooperatives.

How do housing cooperatives work?

Cooperatives manage communal housing; members usually buy a share and receive a right to reside, not necessarily ownership. Cooperatives can offer reduced rents or prioritized access for members, often with longer notice periods and clear maintenance obligations.

• Membership share: Often a one-time share is required, which may be partially refunded on exit.
• Additional and membership fees: Watch for ongoing costs in addition to rent.
• Maintenance: Cooperatives often have fixed rules for upkeep and repairs.

Tenant rights and obligations

Fundamentals of tenancy law are set out in the Civil Code (BGB), especially §§ 535–580a, which govern landlord duties and tenant reduction rights in case of defects^[1]. Important for students are information on rent reduction, reporting repairs and notice periods.

• Report defects: Report defects in writing and document date and photos.
• Respect deadlines: Respond to deadlines in the lease and official decisions.
• Court proceedings: Tenancy disputes are usually heard in the local court (Amtsgericht).

Forms and practical steps

For WBS applications you generally use the application form of your city or district administration. For court actions there are standardized complaint forms at the competent local court; procedural matters are governed by the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO). If you claim a rent reduction, photos, a defect log and witnesses help.

• Required documents: ID, enrollment certificate, proof of income, if applicable lease and previous statements.
• Submit application: File the WBS application with your city administration; they provide detailed instructions.
• Processing times: Allow several weeks processing time, especially at the start of a semester.

What to do in case of termination or eviction

On receiving a notice of termination, first check the form and justification. If grounds are unclear, object promptly and seek advice. If an eviction suit is filed, the local court is the right point of contact and you should observe the deadlines stated in the complaint.

FAQ

Who can apply for a WBS?

People with housing need whose income falls within the specified limits; students with low income can be eligible under certain conditions.

Does a cooperative automatically provide cheaper housing?

Not automatically; cooperatives often provide prioritized access for members and stable rents, but terms vary.

How do I report defects correctly?

In writing to the landlord with date, description and photos; keep copies and request confirmation.

How-To

1. Collect documents: ID, enrollment certificate, proof of income.
2. Find the WBS form and fill it out completely.
3. Submit the application and note the receipt confirmation and deadlines.
4. If problems occur, document all steps and seek advice from tenant associations or the city administration.

Key takeaways

• The WBS can be essential to access subsidized housing.
• Cooperatives may offer stable housing but check membership terms carefully.

Help and Support

• [1] Civil Code (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
• [3] WBS application: Service Berlin (example)

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Wohnberechtigungsschein: Service Berlin — service.berlin.de