Exceptions to the 70% Financing Obligation in Zoetermeer

In Zoetermeer, where many social housing properties in districts such as Buytenwegh and Rokkeveen are being renovated, the 70% rule for complex-wide renovations includes several exceptions that landlords may utilize. According to Article 7:230a of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), a deviation may be made if tenants voluntarily agree to a different cost allocation through a majority decision. In cases of forced renovations due to monument status, such as with historic buildings around Stadshart, or local government regulations from the Municipality of Zoetermeer, the 70% threshold does not always apply. Tenants in Zoetermeer should be vigilant about improper use, such as splitting renovations into smaller parts to circumvent the regulation—a practice that the municipality strictly monitors. The Council of State and the Administrative Court for Trade and Industry have ruled that interconnected works, for example in large-scale energy-saving projects in Seghwaert, must be viewed as a single complex. As a tenant in Zoetermeer, you can lodge an objection with the Rent Tribunal if the landlord misuses the exception. Act within two months of becoming aware of the renovation plans, for instance via consultation meetings held by housing corporations such as Vidomes. In case of a breach, you may be entitled to compensation, rent reduction, or even postponement through local Social Support Act (Wmo) regulations. Always consult a tenancy law attorney in Zoetermeer, particularly in the case of social housing where the municipality’s subsidy conditions provide additional protection against rising service charges.