Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to the questions we get the most. Take a look and let us know if we can help you in other ways!

When should the contract termination notice be submitted?

A termination is permitted under § 573c BGB no later than the third-to-last business day (company specific) of the calendar month which is two months before the move out month. Move-out will be at the end of the month (2 months and 3 days from submission of termination notice).

Example: You want to purchase a new home on 01.12? Then the notice must be received before the last three business days in September. A cancellation must be in writing (§ 568 para 1 BGB). It must be personally signed by all parties. ***Please note that a cancellation by fax or e-mail is not effective.

How is my monthly rent bill (additional costs, heating costs) calculated and collected?

The total monthly rental is usually composed of the basic rent plus all associated costs like heating and hot water.

The base rent includes charges for the use of the leased property (i.e. the actual rent).

Additional costs (or cost) are current costs that arise from building or land use. This includes inter alia the building insurance, property tax, garbage disposal, water supply, cable TV, etc.

The landlord is obliged to continually ensure service by paying these costs--due to the cost of regulation and the rental contract provisions agreed on by the tenant.

Which costs are incurred when renting an apartment?

A team of professional rental and leasing agents can help in the search for housing according to your individual needs and requirements. All housing and vacancy inventory is from our own stock portfolio or our associates'. No brokerage fees or commissions are incurred.

When first renting an apartment, a security deposit is usually paid (for unforeseen damages). The deposit amount varies from apartment to apartment, and at the end of the lease period compensation to the tenant is due under the lease claims.

Am I able to have/own pets in my apartment?

In general, small animals such as fish, hamsters, birds, etc., which are kept in cages, can be kept in the apartment. Our local rental management is here to help clarify misunderstandings. The keeping of large animals such as dogs or cats requires the consent of the landlord. More information and rules for the keeping of domestic animals may be found in the lease agreement and may be pre-viewed.

As a rule of thumb, the keeping of pets in the house must not disturb other tenants, and the apartment must not be damaged by the pet.

How do I get an extra key for my apartment?

You may request additional keys from you tenant manager or landlord on site through our caretakers. You may also contact your local Vitus office/representative, and he or she will be happy to process your claim (if in a hurry) or provide you with information on locksmiths in your area.

What does a credit check or SCHUFA report involve?

Credit reports have become a standard procedure in any new rental contract procedure. With the written consent of the tenant, a credit check from credit reporting agencies or SCHUFA will be sent to the Vitus Group. The information within the report makes it clear whether (if an affidavit was submitted) there are arrest warrants for submission of sworn affidavits. Information regarding loans or otherwise may not be disputed.

What is a Wohnungsberechtigungsschein (WBS)/housing subsidy?

The "WBS" makes one eligible for publicly subsidized housing. The owner of publicly subsidized housing (such as the Bremen/bbg) must obtain proof of a valid WBS before the rental contract can be signed. The WBS is not a guarantee of favorable treatment by housing agencies/owners.

Who gets the WBS?

Persons or households whose incomes are below certain limits are eligible for the WBS. The cut-offs are different, depending on how many people belong to the household, and whether or not certain amounts are taken into consideration.

How high are the WBS income limits?

An official statement is as follows: "Based on the gross income of the person or household after current deductions are made (expenses, lump-sums, various allowances, and other deductions)." Decisions are also based on the number and age of persons belonging to the household and the specific situation. The income limits above which a WBS is issued, will change regularly. For the most current limits, click on the links below.

Where can I find the WBS application?

The WBS is issued by the State Office of Housing. There you will receive all further information. See below.

A German Real Estate Company