Rent Reduction After Completion of Renovation Works in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, where housing corporations such as Vidomes and Mozaïek Wonen renovate many complexes under the 70% regulation, tenants are entitled to a rent reduction if the works result in a decrease in property value or defects. Article 7:243 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) stipulates that judicial assessment of quality improvements may lead to an adjustment of the rent. For renovations in neighborhoods like Seghwaert or Driemanspolder, which often promise energy savings such as an improved EPC rating, tenants may demand a reduction of up to 40% of the investment costs if these targets are not met. The Rent Assessment Committee calculates this based on the housing valuation system, taking into account local energy label standards set by the municipality of Zoetermeer. Practical examples from Zoetermeer show that post-renovation leaks in Rokkeveen or poor insulation in Buytenwegh have led to successful claims for reductions of 10-25%. Tenants must provide measurements of energy consumption or structural inspections and initiate proceedings with the Rent Assessment Committee or the subdistrict court in Zoetermeer within a reasonable timeframe. Landlords risk fines for non-compliance. Combining this with the Good Landlordship Act and reporting to the municipality can apply additional pressure on local housing corporations.