WBS & Cooperatives: Student Tenants in Germany
Students in Germany often look for affordable housing and face questions about the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) and cooperatives. This article explains who is eligible for social housing, how a cooperative works and what rights you have as a tenant. We cover which documents and deadlines matter, how to submit applications and when federal or municipal forms are required. Practical tips help with cover letters, dealing with landlords and the move-in protocol. I also list official authorities, courts and necessary sample forms so you can act confidently on rental agreements, rent increases or terminations. The guidance is based on the BGB, the WoFG and current German court decisions so you understand your rights.
What applies to the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS)?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a certificate needed to apply for subsidized social housing. Eligibility criteria and income limits vary by federal state; the Housing Promotion Act provides the legal basis.[1] Students can qualify under certain conditions, for example with low income or if BAföG is taken into account. A WBS is not an automatic housing allocation but grants access to specific offers and priority waiting lists.
Cooperatives: what students should know
Housing cooperatives are community-run providers of housing. Members typically do not buy individual apartments but acquire shares or make a deposit; in return they receive housing rights and participation in decisions. Cooperatives set rules for membership, deposits and internal application procedures. Tenants in a cooperative remain protected by statutory tenant rights under the BGB, such as protection against unlawful termination and rules on rent increases and maintenance.[2]
- Lower rent through subsidized or cost-covering models.
- Participation in housing matters via member meetings.
- Greater security and predictability regarding terminations and re-allocations.
- Transparent ancillary costs and often collective renovation decisions.
Practical steps as a tenant
- Check whether you are eligible for a WBS and which housing categories apply.
- Gather key documents: ID, enrollment certificate, income proofs or BAföG notice.
- Submit the WBS application to the responsible municipal housing authority with all supporting documents on time.
- If allocated a unit or offered a cooperative flat: arrange a viewing and prepare a move-in protocol.
- In disputes with the landlord or unclear terminations, legal proceedings at the local court may be necessary; check jurisdiction and deadlines.[3]
FAQ
- Who is eligible for a WBS?
- People whose income falls below the thresholds set by housing promotion law; detailed rules and responsibilities are determined by the federal states and municipalities.
- Can I become a cooperative member as a student?
- Yes, many cooperatives allow student membership; terms like the required deposit and waiting times vary.
- What can I do if the landlord does not carry out necessary repairs?
- Document defects, notify the landlord in writing and observe deadlines; if problems persist, rent reduction or legal action can be considered.
How-To
- Check: Learn about WBS eligibility in your municipality.
- Prepare: Collect income proofs, enrollment certificate and ID.
- Apply: Submit WBS and application documents completely.
- Plan move-in: Arrange handover and check the inventory protocol.
- Legal protection: If disputes arise, seek advice and, if needed, start proceedings at the local court.
Key Takeaways
- Observe deadlines for applications and document submissions.
- Cooperatives can offer lower rents and smaller deposits.
- Good documentation and formal applications strengthen your position in disputes.
Help and Support / Resources
- Laws online: BGB §§535ff (Tenancy law)
- Laws online: Housing Promotion Act (WoFG)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – decisions on tenancy law
