Liberalisation threshold points system in Zoetermeer: impact on your rental property
The liberalisation threshold points system determines whether a rental property in Zoetermeer remains in the social rental sector or moves to the private sector. From 2024, a tightened regime applies based on points for rent price, location and property quality. If a property exceeds the threshold, it leaves the social sector. This article discusses the system, the effects for tenants and landlords in Zoetermeer and local nuances.
What does the liberalisation threshold points system entail for Zoetermeer?
This system maintains the balance between social and private rental. The government prevents too many affordable homes in Zoetermeer from disappearing, crucial for lower incomes. It evaluates characteristics such as:
- Rent price: higher rent yields more points.
- Location: attractive locations in Zoetermeer score higher.
- Quality: surface area, condition and luxury facilities.
- Age of property: newer construction years often receive extra points.
If the score exceeds the liberalisation threshold, the landlord may apply free prices without social rental restrictions. In Zoetermeer, district of the District Court of The Hague, this is prominent due to the growing demand for housing.
Legal basis and local application
Based on the Social Rental Act and Rent Allowance Act. Key references:
- Article 1.1 Social Rental Act: criteria for liberalisation.
- Article 1.1 Rent Allowance Act: rent allowance and sector transition.
- Social Rental Decree: points and thresholds.
Since 1 January 2024, the threshold in Zoetermeer has been raised to retain more social rental. In case of disputes: District Court of The Hague. Advice via Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer.
How do you calculate the points in Zoetermeer?
Factors are added together; exceeding the threshold results in liberalisation. Example table for Zoetermeer:
| Factor | Description | Points (Zoetermeer example) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent price | Monthly rent. | €1,100+ = 28 points. |
| Location | Market pressure in Zoetermeer (e.g. centre). | Central areas = 22 points. |
| Property quality | Size and facilities. | 3-bedroom with lift/bathroom = 18 points. |
| Construction years | Year of construction. | After 1990 = 14 points. |
| Energy | Label performance. | Label A or B = 12 points. |
In Zoetermeer, points vary locally due to municipal pressure and suburban location near The Hague. The liberalisation threshold is around 142-150 points (2024). Check with housing associations or Rent Tribunal. For personal advice: Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer.
Consequences for tenants and landlords in Zoetermeer
Tenants: Upon transition to the private sector, regulation lapses; rent may increase, but rent allowance remains possible up to €879 (2024). Landlords: Freedom in price and conditions, attractive in Zoetermeer's growth areas. Unique: Zoetermeer's location near the Randstad increases location points. In case of doubt: contact the District Court of The Hague or Legal Aid Office Zoetermeer.