Income-dependent rent increase: rules and explanation
An **income-dependent rent increase** adjusts the rent to your income, with protection for lower incomes in Zoetermeer. Established since 2015 in the Rent Increase Decree. Discover how it works, the rules, and your rights at the District Court of The Hague (district Zoetermeer).
What is an income-dependent rent increase?
The landlord may only increase the rent if your joint household income has risen. This applies to private sector and subsidised rental properties in Zoetermeer, not to social housing by housing associations or owner-occupied homes. The increase follows the Rent Income Index of the CBS, limited to your personal income growth.
Legal basis: laws and rules
The rules are set out in:
- Article 7:209a DCC: Maximum permitted increase in the private sector.
- Rent Increase Decree 2023: Exact calculation methods.
- Rent Income Index (CBS): Basis for the percentage.
NB: No application to social rent, long-term rental agreements (>10 years) or temporary contracts in Zoetermeer. In case of disputes: District Court of The Hague or Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer.
How is the rent increase calculated?
Three factors determine the maximum increase:
- Rent Income Index: For example, 3.5% in 2024 (check CBS).
- Your income increase: May not be exceeded.
- Statutory cap: Maximum 100% of the index, or your increase if lower.
Example for Zoetermeer:
| Situation | Current rent | Rent Income Index | Your income increase | Max increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Income +2% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 2% | €24 (2%) |
| Income +5% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 5% | €60 (5%) |
| Income unchanged | €1,200 | 3.5% | 0% | No increase |
Need help? Contact Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer for free advice or initiate a procedure at the District Court of The Hague. Keep all correspondence with your landlord.