Indexation of Service Costs versus WWS Maximum in Zoetermeer: The Pitfalls

In Zoetermeer, service costs indexation may not fall below the WWS maximum, but local landlords, such as those in the new-build complexes around the Stadshart, often use it as a sneaky route. Article 7:892 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) clearly separates the bare rent from service costs, which may be indexed annually based on the CPI (consumer price index) via the CBS. However, in Zoetermeer, landlords sometimes bundle this with rent increases, which is invalid according to the Huurcommissie in the South Holland region. Carefully check the specification: fixed costs such as lift maintenance in flats on Rokkeveenseweg versus variable costs such as cleaning in parking garages. Only CPI adjustment is permitted, not the WWS percentage. Request annual accounts from housing associations such as Vidomes and compare with official CBS inflation figures. Exceedance? Rebut item by item with evidence. The Huurcommissie tests this separately and takes into account Zoetermeer's market conditions. Avoid the pitfall by invoicing bare rent and service costs separately, especially in rental properties near Zoetermeer-Zuid station. In case of abuse: demand rent reduction and contact the local Woonbond Zoetermeer. Stay alert for this grey area in Zoetermeer's rapidly growing rental market.