WBS & Housing Co-ops for Tenants in Germany

As a student in Germany it is often important to correctly prove a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) or to apply for a cooperative apartment. This guide explains in plain language which documents landlords or cooperatives expect, how to properly prepare notices and income proofs, and which deadlines apply. I also explain typical forms, practical examples for applications and where to turn in case of disputes. The aim is that you as a tenant can submit all necessary proofs securely, improve your chances with cooperatives and understand legal basics such as tenancy law in Germany. The text is aimed at non‑lawyers and gives concrete steps to take.

What are WBS and cooperatives?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official certificate that in certain cases confirms entitlement to subsidized housing. The legal bases are the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)^[2] and tenant law in the Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) for general landlord and tenant duties^[1]. Cooperatives often prefer members who can present social proofs such as the WBS in addition to economic criteria. For legal disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually competent in the first instance^[3].

WBS: which documents do tenants need?

Prepare the following documents and check the requirements of the responsible authority or cooperative carefully.

• Income proofs (rent): current payslips or BAföG decision, and if applicable bank statements.
• Identity card or passport (form), registration certificate and, if applicable, certificate of enrollment from your university.
• Observe deadlines (within): pay attention to processing times and application deadlines for the municipality.
• Additional proofs (document): proofs of maintenance payments, special payments or social benefits.

How landlords and cooperatives check proofs

Cooperatives have different review processes: some require membership applications, creditworthiness checks or a personal interview. Landlords often check identity, creditworthiness and formal entitlement to subsidized housing. If unsure, ask the issuing authority or the cooperative in good time which forms are accepted. Use certified copies only if explicitly requested.

FAQ

Do I need a WBS to live in a cooperative?

Not always; some cooperatives do not require a WBS, others prioritize the WBS for subsidized apartments. Ask the cooperative in advance.

What deadline applies to WBS applications?

Deadlines vary by municipality. Submit the application early because issuance can take several weeks.

Where to go in case of a dispute with the landlord?

For tenancy disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) is usually responsible in the first instance; check deadlines to respond to reminders or terminations.

How-To

1. Check requirements: Check the requirements of the municipality or cooperative (form) and download the correct application form.
2. Collect documents: Collect income proofs and other required documents (rent) and prepare copies.
3. Submit application: Submit the application within the deadline (within), in person or online depending on the municipality.
4. Contact for questions: Contact the responsible office or the cooperative (contact) and document all conversations.

Help and Support

• Gesetze im Internet – BGB and other legal bases
• Gesetze im Internet – Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
• Justice portal – information on courts and jurisdictions

1. [1] Gesetze im Internet – Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB)
2. [2] Gesetze im Internet – Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG)
3. [3] Justizportal – Informationen zu Gerichten