Maximum Rent Increase Rules After Liberalisation in Zoetermeer

In the private sector in Zoetermeer after liberalisation, no statutory maxima apply to rent increases; landlords and tenants negotiate freely, often annually with CPI +2-3%, fitting the growing demand in this region. Social rent in Zoetermeer remains limited to inflation (3.3% in 2024) plus costs for housing improvements. Transitional rules: in the first liberalisation year max. 5% for sitting tenants, with scale 1st year 4%, 2nd year 5%, thereafter free. The Good Landlordship Act (2019) prohibits unreasonable increases; in case of complaint, the Huurcommissie tests for reasonableness. Indexation follows CBS inflation. Tenants in Zoetermeer sign the rent increase proposal or tacitly agree after 2 months. Disputes are settled via the district court in The Hague. Locally in Zoetermeer and surrounding neighbourhoods such as Rokkeveen and Seghwaert, private sector increases of 7-10% are seen due to housing shortage and proximity to The Hague and Rotterdam. Municipality of Zoetermeer offers advice via Woonpunt and local housing associations; consult the City Hall for model letters. During corona time, temporary ceilings applied. Future: EU directive on affordable rent may set limits, while Zoetermeer's real estate market attracts due to good accessibility via A12. Advice: include fixed rental periods in the contract and check fiscal impact, higher rent reduces mortgage interest deduction. This clearly separates sectors in Zoetermeer.