In 2024, strict rules apply in Zoetermeer for tenants in the social housing sector if their income exceeds the income limit. According to the Housing Act (article 5.1) and the Affordable Housing Allocation Decree, the landlord, such as local housing associations Haga Wonen or Welgelegen, must check whether the household income exceeds the limit of approximately €47,699 (for a single person). If exceeded, a relocation obligation often follows within two years, unless exceptional circumstances such as medical limitations or advanced age apply.
The procedure in Zoetermeer proceeds via the Tax Authorities check by the housing association, followed by an intention to terminate the tenancy agreement. Tenants can file an objection with the housing association, followed by an appeal to the Rent Tribunal or the district court in The Hague. Exceptions are possible in case of temporary exceedance due to an inheritance, bonus, or one-off benefit; in such cases, the municipality of Zoetermeer may grant a deferral via an urgency declaration.
In practice, many Zoetermeer tenants move to the private sector or mid-range rental in neighborhoods such as Seghwaert or Rokkeveense Zoom, where rents are higher. This often causes financial bottlenecks, especially with rising house prices around Zoetermeer City Hall. The municipality encourages mobility with priority for mid-range rental properties and advises on rent allowance or income adjustment. Local housing associations organize information evenings at the Wmo counter. Stay alert via your landlord and, in case of disputes, engage a tenancy law attorney via the Zoetermeer Legal Aid Office. (248 words)