WBS & Social Housing in Germany for Tenants
As a tenant in Germany, you may wonder how the allocation process for social housing and the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) works. This guide explains step by step who is eligible, which forms are required, and how decisions are made transparently. You will learn which documents the city or municipality requires, how to file the WBS application, and which deadlines must be observed. We also describe common problems such as rent reduction, repairs, or termination and show when it makes sense to consider legal action before the local court. Practical tips help you collect evidence correctly and enforce your rights as tenants.
What is the WBS and why is it important?
The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is an official certificate that documents eligibility for social housing. It specifies whether your household meets the income limits for subsidized housing. The municipalities are responsible; the application is usually called "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein" and is submitted to the city or municipality. A WBS alone does not guarantee a flat, but it is often a prerequisite for allocation.
Relevant laws and tenant rights
The tenancy relationship in Germany is regulated in the BGB, especially in §§ 535–580a, which concern landlord and tenant obligations and protection against termination.[1] For subsidized housing, the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) also applies and contains rules for allocation and funding.[2] In court proceedings to enforce claims or eviction actions, the Code of Civil Procedure (ZPO) applies.[3]
Who is eligible for a social housing unit?
Eligible households are generally those that do not exceed certain income limits and can demonstrate their housing need. Exact income thresholds and the list of documents vary by state and municipality. Typical proofs include salary statements, registration certificate, and, if applicable, proof of special need.
Typical documents for the WBS application
- Application form: "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein" (at city/municipality).
- Salary or income statements for recent months and notices of social benefits.
- Registration certificate or identity card for identification.
How is social housing allocated?
Allocation is usually carried out by the municipality or by housing companies with municipal assignment. Criteria include income, urgency (e.g., homelessness, health reasons) and often waiting lists. Transparency here means: ask for your city’s allocation criteria and for insight into ranking if available.
What you can do if allocation seems opaque
- Contact the responsible housing office in writing and request information on allocation criteria.
- Collect all decisions and proofs to substantiate an objection or complaint.
- For legal questions, check the procedure before your local court.
What to do with tenancy problems?
For defects (e.g., mold, heating failure) inform your landlord immediately in writing and set a reasonable deadline for repair. If repairs are not made, you can consider a rent reduction and must document the situation. For terminations or eviction threats, observe deadlines and possibly seek legal advice.
Steps for defects and repairs
- Notify the defect in writing and set a deadline.
- Create photos and logs as evidence.
- Only if refusal continues: consider and calculate a rent reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who issues the WBS and where do I apply?
- The WBS is issued by your housing office / citizen services of the city or municipality. Apply there in person or online via your municipality's offering.
- How long does processing a WBS application take?
- Processing time varies by municipality; expect several weeks to a few months. Provide complete documentation to avoid delays.
- Can I file an objection against an allocation decision?
- Yes, a written objection or an administrative complaint is usually possible; watch deadlines and document your arguments.
How-To
- Gather documents: salary statements, registration certificate, ID and any proof of special need.
- Check deadlines: submit the WBS application in time and note processing periods.
- Contact the housing office in writing for clarifications and request allocation criteria.
- For disputes, assess whether filing at the local court is necessary or if mediation helps.
Notes on forms and manuals
The key form is the "Application for issuance of a Wohnberechtigungsschein"; it is available at your municipality and may have different names. For court action there are civil procedure claim forms and guidance at your local court. Keep copies of all submissions and note confirmations of receipt.
Help and Support
- [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
- [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) - gesetze-im-internet.de
