WBS Move for Tenant Families in Germany

Many tenant families in Germany use the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) to access subsidized housing. A planned move with a WBS differs from a regular relocation in terms of deadlines, documentation and applications. This article explains step by step which documents you need, how to meet deadlines, which forms are required by authorities and what rights apply in case of delays or defects. We show how to apply for the WBS in time, coordinate appointments with landlord and housing office, and which courts have jurisdiction for disputes. The information helps you make the move as a tenant in Germany legally safer and less stressful.

What is the WBS?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a certificate that a person or family is entitled to subsidized housing. The legal basis is regulated in the Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG).^[2] The WBS indicates the permitted apartment size and income limits; the actual issuance is carried out by the city or district administration.

WBS move: Steps & documents

• Application for WBS (form): submit the completed form to the housing office, e.g. attach proof of income.
• Proofs (evidence): copy payslips, registration certificate, ID card and attach them.
• Deadlines (deadline): be aware of processing times of weeks to months and plan the move accordingly.
• Contact landlord and housing office (contact): coordinate appointments and confirm viewing dates.
• Moving logistics (move-in): plan notice periods, deposit arrangements and the handover of the apartment.

Forms and templates

• Application for Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS): form from your city/municipality; example: complete the form, attach proof of income and submit it in person or by post.
• Termination letter (template): standard form to end the tenancy; example: "Termination of the tenancy as of DD.MM.YYYY" with signature.
• Handover protocol: document defects at move-in/move-out with photos and signatures from landlord and tenant.

Rights and legal steps

As a tenant you have obligations and rights under the BGB, especially regarding maintenance and rent reduction.^[1] In disputes, the local court (Amtsgericht) usually decides in the first instance; court proceedings follow the Code of Civil Procedure.^[3] Higher legal questions can go to the Federal Court of Justice (BGH), whose decisions set precedents.^[4] Seek legal advice or tenant counseling from your municipality early.

FAQ

Who is entitled to a WBS?

Families with certain income limits and special needs; exact limits are regulated by the WoFG and the municipality. ^[2]

How long does issuing the WBS take?

Processing can take several weeks to months depending on the municipality; apply early.

What if the new subsidized apartment has defects?

Report defects in writing, set a deadline for remedy and consider rent reduction if necessary; legal basis in the BGB. ^[1]

How-To

1. Fill out the form (form): complete the WBS application and attach all required proofs.
2. Make an appointment (contact): arrange an appointment at the housing office or municipality for personal submission.
3. Copy documents (evidence): scan and back up all documents and photos for your records.
4. Plan moving date (move-in): observe notice periods and agree a handover date with the landlord.
5. Resolve disputes (court): seek an amicable solution, otherwise consider a lawsuit at the local court.

Help and Support

• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) – gesetze-im-internet.de
• Federal Court of Justice (BGH) – bundesgerichtshof.de

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1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Zivilprozessordnung (ZPO) — gesetze-im-internet.de
4. [4] Bundesgerichtshof (BGH) — bundesgerichtshof.de