WBS & Cooperatives: Proving Tenant Status in Germany
Many tenants in Germany seek clear information on how to correctly prove the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) to cooperatives or municipal housing providers. This article explains in plain language which proofs are accepted, which forms are required and which deadlines apply to applications. I describe practical steps — such as which documents to collect, how to check income limits and how to present a copy of the WBS in a legally effective way. The guidance is aimed at applications for social housing, cooperative apartments and subsidised offers. At the end you will find sample forms, responsible authorities and court procedures in case disputes arise.
What is the WBS?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official certificate that a person meets the requirements for subsidised housing. The basis and conditions for the WBS are regulated by state laws and the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG).[2] The WBS itself is usually issued by municipal offices and confirms eligibility for certain social housing offers.
Which documents do tenants need?
- Income proofs (income) such as pay slips, pension notices or benefit awards.
- Identity card or passport for identification.
- WBS application or a copy of the issued WBS (form) including the authority's stamp.
- Tenancy agreement, application documents or evidence of housing need for allocation purposes.
Forms and official proofs
The concrete forms for the WBS are provided by the respective municipality; the document is often called "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein." Many cooperatives additionally require a written confirmation of issuance or a certified copy. For court actions there are standardised complaint forms under the Code of Civil Procedure that can be filed at the local court.[3]
If a dispute arises — courts and procedure
In disputes over entitlement, proof or rejection, the local court (Amtsgericht) is often competent in the first instance; appeals may go to the regional court (Landgericht) and fundamental questions to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH).[4] The legal basis for tenancy relationships is the German Civil Code (BGB), especially rules on landlord and tenant obligations.[1]
FAQ
- Who needs a WBS?
- A WBS is needed by people who, under the respective state rules, are entitled to subsidised housing, for example due to low income or special housing needs.
- Which documents does a cooperative accept?
- Cooperatives typically require the WBS copy, income proofs and ID; they may also request separate application forms or authorisations.
- What to do in case of rejection or dispute?
- Check the reasons for rejection, file an objection or complaint with the issuing authority and collect all evidence; as a last resort, a lawsuit at the local court may be necessary.
How-To
- Collect income proofs, tenancy contract and your identity document.
- Submit the WBS application to the responsible municipality and request certified copies if needed.
- Submit the WBS copy together with application documents to the cooperative.
- Observe deadlines for applications and objections; note dates and deadlines.
- If rejected, first try internal clarification and consider legal steps at the local court if necessary.
Key Takeaways
- The WBS is the central proof for entitlement to subsidised housing.
- Gather complete income and identity documents before applying.
- Pay attention to deadlines and respond promptly to official letters.
Help and Support
- German Civil Code (BGB) – Gesetze im Internet
- Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) – Gesetze im Internet
- Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – Official site
