Rent Prices for Social Housing in Zoetermeer - The Points System Explained
In Zoetermeer, the maximum rent price for social rental housing is determined by the Housing Valuation System (WWS), also known as the points system. This system assigns points to a property based on specific characteristics, which sets the highest permissible rent price.
What Does the Points System Entail?
The WWS provides a standardised way to assess the value of a rental property:
- Each property characteristic yields a certain number of points
- The total of these points determines the maximum rent
- This applies to social rental housing (up to €879.66 in 2024)
- With the Affordable Rent Act, this system is extended to mid-range rental segments
Which Characteristics Count for Points?
| Characteristic | Points (approximately) |
|---|---|
| Living area | 1 point per m² |
| Other spaces | 0.75 points per m² |
| Type of heating | 2-3 points |
| Energy label | -15 to +44 points |
| Kitchen facilities | 0-10 points |
| Sanitary facilities | 0-12 points |
| Outdoor space (such as balcony or garden) | 2-15 points |
| WOZ value | Variable (approximately 1 point per €12,000) |
From Points to Rent Amount
The Rent Tribunal annually establishes an overview linking points to maximum rent prices. Some examples for 2024:
| Number of points | Maximum net rent |
|---|---|
| 80 points | approximately €440 |
| 100 points | approximately €560 |
| 120 points | approximately €680 |
| 140 points | approximately €800 |
| 147+ points | Above the liberalisation threshold |
The Liberalisation Threshold in Zoetermeer
For 2024, the liberalisation threshold has been set at €879.66 (approximately 147 points):
- Below this threshold: Social rent, points system is binding
- Above this threshold: Private sector, rent price is freely determined
Influence of Energy Label on Points
The energy label plays an important role in the points calculation:
| Energy label | Effect on points |
|---|---|
| A++++ to A+ | +30 to +44 points |
| A | +22 points |
| B | +14 points |
| C | +8 points |
| D | +4 points |
| E | 0 points |
| F | -5 points |
| G | -15 points |
Calculate the Points of Your Property Yourself
You can make an estimate of the points for your property in Zoetermeer:
- Use the Rent Price Check on huurcommissie.nl
- Carefully measure all spaces
- Check the energy label of the property
- Consult the WOZ value via WOZwaardeloket.nl
Have Your Rent Price Checked in Zoetermeer
Do you suspect your rent is too high?
- Within 6 months of rent commencement: Assessment can have retroactive effect
- After 6 months: Reduction applies from the date of application
- Process: Via the Rent Tribunal (costs €25)
Affordable Rent Act (2024) and Zoetermeer
The new legislation extends the points system:
- Applies to mid-range rent (up to approximately 186 points)
- More properties fall under rent price regulation
- Stricter conditions for the private sector
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent in Zoetermeer
How can I find out the points calculation for my property?
Your landlord is obliged to provide this information. If not, you can submit a request to the Rent Tribunal.
May a landlord charge more rent than permitted?
No, for social rent, the maximum rent price is binding. If the rent is too high, you can request an assessment.
Does a storage room count in the points calculation?
Yes, a storage room counts as other space at 0.75 points per m².
The points system ensures that tenants in Zoetermeer do not pay too much. Check whether the rent for your property matches the points.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights as a tenant in Zoetermeer?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe property, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the option to file a complaint for defects.
Can my landlord increase the rent just like that?
No, rent increases must comply with statutory rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be held by the landlord and repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, provided there is no damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Zoetermeer?
You can terminate the tenancy observing the statutory notice period, usually one month, by written notice.