Rent Increase CPI Limit in Zoetermeer: What You Need to Know
The **rent increase CPI limit** in Zoetermeer determines the maximum annual increase by your landlord. Since 2015, a statutory limit applies based on the **Consumer Price Index (CPI)**. Discover how this works, your rights and steps in case of violation via institutions in Zoetermeer.
What does the CPI limit mean for rent in Zoetermeer?
The **CPI limit** restricts the rent increase for residential tenants in Zoetermeer to the inflation increase according to the **Consumer Price Index (CPI)**, published by the **Statistics Netherlands (CBS)**. The increase may not exceed the CPI increase from the previous year plus 1 percentage point.
This applies to regular **residential rent** in Zoetermeer, but not to:
- Private sector dwellings without housing benefit
- Commercial spaces
- Temporary contracts shorter than 1 year
- Fixed rents set by housing associations
Due to the housing crisis, a **temporary cap** of maximum 3.5% has applied since 2023 for rent increases in Zoetermeer and surrounding areas, including the CPI component.
Statutory basis of the CPI limit in Zoetermeer
Regulated in the **Rent Increase for Residential Tenancies Act (WHW)** and **Maximum Rent Increase Act (WMHH)**. Key provisions:
- Article 7:139 DCC: General rent increase rules.
- Article 7:140 DCC: Limitation to CPI + 1%; temporarily adjusted since 2023.
- Maximum Rent Increase Decree (BMHH): Annual percentage.
CBS publishes the CPI in January. Example: CPI increase 2023 of 5% means max. 6% increase in 2024, but limited to 3.5% by temporary rule. In Zoetermeer, the **District Court of The Hague** (district) handles disputes.
Crucial: Contract clauses exceeding the limit are invalid.
CPI limit in practice for Zoetermeer
For a rent of €1,100 in Zoetermeer with 5% CPI increase 2023:
- Normal: 5% + 1% = 6%
- Temporary 2023+: Max. 3.5%
New rent: €1,100 + (€1,100 × 0.035) = €1,138.50. Higher demands are unlawful.
Timing and procedure
Landlord must:
- Warn in writing at least 1 month in advance (art. 7:139 DCC).
- Use CPI from CBS.
- Respect the limit.
Content of rent increase letter
Must contain:
- New rent price.
- Basis CPI increase.
- Effective date.
- Statutory reference (art. 7:140 DCC).
Dear tenant,
As of 1 January 2025, we are increasing your rent in Zoetermeer from €1,100 to €1,138.50 based on CPI + temporary limit.
Your rights and help in Zoetermeer
In case of violation: Refuse payment and contact **Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer** for free advice. In case of escalation: **District Court of The Hague**. Keep all correspondence.
Tip: Check CPI on CBS.nl and rent price via Huurcommissie.