Single Mother Wins Landmark Case After Forced Double Rent Payments
A single mother of two has won a legal battle against the job centre after being forced to pay double rent during a move. The woman, who needed a larger home for her children, faced financial strain when her request for extra support was initially rejected. A court has now ruled that prior approval is not required in such cases.
The mother had secured a bigger apartment to escape overcrowded conditions with her young children. However, delays caused by renovation work in both properties left her paying rent on two homes at once. She turned to the job centre for help, but officials refused, claiming she had not sought permission beforehand.
The court examined the situation and found the job centre had failed to inform her of her rights. Judges noted the local housing market, her personal circumstances, and the unavoidable overlap of leases. They concluded that prior approval was unnecessary in this case.
The ruling highlights the challenges faced by low-income families when dealing with housing issues. It also clarifies that job centres must provide clearer guidance on financial support for unavoidable double-rent situations.
The decision means the mother will now receive the additional rent payments she was denied. The case sets a precedent for similar disputes involving Bürgergeld recipients. Job centres may need to review their policies to ensure families in urgent housing need are not left unsupported.
