WBS & Cooperatives: Tenant Proof in Germany
As a tenant in Germany you often need a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) or proof for a housing cooperative to obtain social housing or cooperative places. This article clearly explains which documents are standard, which forms municipalities require and how to meet deadlines. The guide contains a practical checklist, notes on official forms and examples so you can assemble and submit proofs correctly. If necessary, we name competent courts and relevant legal provisions so you know where to find legal support. The information helps you prepare applications without errors and increase your chances of approval. If you need help filling in forms, you will find links to official authorities and forms at the end.
WBS and cooperatives explained
A Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a prerequisite in many federal states for allocation of subsidized housing. Cooperatives often additionally require a membership certificate or income proofs to verify your eligibility. The legal bases for tenancy are found in the Civil Code (BGB) and specific rules on housing promotion in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).[1][2]
Checklist: Documents for proof
- Application form of the responsible authority (form): fully completed and signed.
- Income statements for the last three months (document): pay slips, unemployment benefit II notice or pension notice.
- Identity card or passport (document): copy for identification.
- Membership certificate of the cooperative (form): if already a member or a declaration required.
- Utility or rent arrears certificate (payment): proof of current rent payments or clearance of arrears.
- Additional proofs (document): disability ID, family documents, custody papers if applicable.
On all forms, pay attention to deadlines and submission modes; some offices accept only personal submission or registered post. If a proof is missing, ask the issuing authority in time about alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who needs a WBS?
- Persons entitled to subsidized housing usually need a WBS; income limits vary by federal state and household size.
- What deadlines apply when submitting documents?
- Deadlines depend on the specific announcement or cooperative allocation procedure; respond within the stated period, usually 14 to 30 days.
- Who do I contact in case of disputes about rejection or eviction?
- For tenancy disputes the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent; proceedings follow the rules of the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO).[3]
How-To
- Download or request forms (form): check the current version and fill in required fields.
- Collect and copy documents (document): pay slips, ID, membership certificate.
- Check deadlines and send (calendar): request confirmation of receipt and submit on time by registered post or in person.
- Contact if unclear (help): ask the authority or cooperative for missing proofs.
- Keep confirmations (safety): store evidence of submission and copies securely.
Key Legal Bases
Overview: Civil Code (BGB) for general tenancy law, Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) for WBS rules and the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) for court procedures.[1][2][3]
Key Takeaways
- Complete documents increase allocation chances.
- Deadlines and confirmations matter.
- Good documentation helps in disputes.
Help & Resources
- BGB — Civil Code (Gesetze im Internet)
- WoFG — Housing Promotion Act (Gesetze im Internet)
- ZPO — Code of Civil Procedure (Gesetze im Internet)
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH)
