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Rent Increase in Zoetermeer - Rules and Rights

Learn everything about rent increases in Zoetermeer: the rules for social housing and private sector, maximum increases and how to object. Contact the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer for advice.

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Rent Increase in Zoetermeer - Rules and Rights

In Zoetermeer, landlords may adjust the rent annually, but this must comply with specific laws and regulations. The permitted increase depends on the type of rental property: social housing or private sector. Discover here your options to object.

Rules for Social Housing in Zoetermeer

For rental properties with a monthly rent up to €879.66 (2024), the following rules apply:

Maximum Rent Increase 2024

CategoryMaximum Increase
Regular increase5.8%
Income-dependent (high income)Maximum €100 extra
Rent under €300Maximum €25 extra

Income-Related Increase

For households with a higher income, an additional rent increase may be applied:

  • Income above approximately €52,000 (singles)
  • Income above approximately €61,000 (families)

Rent Increase Private Sector in Zoetermeer

For rental properties above €879.66 (liberalised):

  • No fixed maximum until 2024
  • Increase based on contractual agreements
  • Often linked to inflation (CPI) plus a surcharge
  • The Affordable Rent Act introduces a limit of inflation + 1%

Process of Rent Increase

Landlords in Zoetermeer must follow a fixed procedure:

  1. Written notice: At least 2 months before the effective date
  2. Details: Current rent, new rent, start date and percentage
  3. Justification: For income-dependent increase: proof of income
  4. Objection opportunity: Tenants must be given the chance to respond

When is a Rent Increase Not Permitted?

  • For a tenancy period shorter than 12 months
  • If there has already been an increase within 12 months
  • If the procedure has not been followed correctly
  • If the rent exceeds the WWS limit
  • In case of serious defects in the property

Filing an Objection in Zoetermeer

You can object to a rent increase if:

  • The increase exceeds the statutory maximum
  • The landlord has not followed the procedure correctly
  • The rent after increase exceeds the points system
  • There are serious maintenance issues

Steps for Objection

  1. Send a written objection within the specified period
  2. Explain why you disagree with the increase
  3. Pay the old rent under reservation
  4. If necessary, involve the Rent Tribunal via the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer

Rent Increase and Maintenance Issues

In case of significant defects in your rental property:

  • You can challenge the rent increase
  • First report the problem to the landlord
  • No solution? Contact the Rent Tribunal
  • The Rent Tribunal can block the increase

Possibility of Rent Reduction

In some cases, the rent can be reduced, for example:

  • If your income decreases (for income-dependent increase)
  • If the property value decreases (e.g. due to a worse energy label)
  • If you submit a request to the landlord or Rent Tribunal

Rent Harmonisation for New Tenants

For a new tenant in Zoetermeer, the landlord may:

  • Increase the rent to the WWS maximum
  • This process is called harmonisation
  • Only applicable upon a new tenancy agreement

Practical Questions about Rent Increase

Am I required to accept the rent increase?

If you do not respond, it is assumed that you agree. Object in time if you disagree.

What if I cannot pay the rent increase?

Discuss a payment arrangement with your landlord and check if you qualify for rent allowance.

Does a rent increase affect my rent allowance?

Yes, a higher rent may result in a higher allowance, up to the maximum amount.

Examine every rent increase proposal carefully. You have the right to take action if the increase is unjustified. For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer or submit a case to the District Court of The Hague.