Strict enforcement against the abuse of social housing in Berlin
The Berlin state government council has decided to significantly increase fines for those who rent social housing at inflated prices. According to Christian Gaebler, a senator responsible for urban development, construction, and housing, fines can now reach up to 100,000 euros, giving Berlin a more effective tool to ensure compliance with housing support conditions.
In addition, the region will be able to collect up to 15 euros per month for each square meter in cases of renting subsidized housing at prices exceeding the allowed limit, after the previous limit was only five euros. Geibler stated that this amendment more accurately reflects the illicit profits that some landlords earn when they violate support rules.
The housing law in Berlin has also been amended regarding rental assistance. Since 2015, some residents of social housing are entitled to receive rent support according to the Berlin State Housing Law.
However, according to Geibler, the Court of Auditors in Berlin pointed out that this support is sometimes granted to individuals who are entitled to receive assistance from the federal government under the Rent Support Act.
To avoid duplication of assistance and complicating accounting procedures, rental support will only be granted in the future to those who are not already receiving federal rental assistance. Geibler explained that "tenants will have a choice between different forms of support."