What Are Housing Associations?
Housing associations are non-profit organisations that focus on building, managing and renting affordable housing. Their main goal is to provide quality housing to people with limited income, also in Zoetermeer.
Roles and Responsibilities of Housing Associations
| Task | Description |
|---|---|
| Construction Projects | Developing new social rental housing |
| Management | Responsible for maintenance and improvements |
| Rental | Allocating housing to specific target groups |
| Neighbourhood Improvement | Investing in the living environment of neighbourhoods |
| Special Groups | Housing for elderly, students and status holders |
Rights of Tenants in Zoetermeer
- Rent Protection: Statutory safeguards for tenants
- Rent Price Control: Rent limited by the housing valuation system
- Co-determination: Input via tenants' associations
- Complaints Procedure: Option to file complaints
- Housing Quality: Right to a well-maintained home
Tenants' Associations in Zoetermeer
Your Input as a Tenant
Tenants in Zoetermeer can join a tenants' association. This has influence on:
- Policies on rent prices and increases
- Strategies for housing maintenance
- Plans for renovations
- Projects for neighbourhood improvement
- Costs for additional services
Filing Complaints with a Housing Association
In case of problems, you can contact:
- The customer service of your housing association
- The internal complaints committee
- The Woonbond for tenants' interests
- The Rent Tribunal for rent or maintenance issues
- The court for unresolved disputes
Supervision of Housing Associations
Housing associations are supervised by:
- Authority for Housing Corporations (Aw)
- Guarantee Fund for Social Housing (WSW)
- Ministry of Housing and Spatial Planning
May housing associations distribute profits?
No, as recognised institutions without profit motive, they must reinvest any surpluses in social housing.
How can I file a complaint about my housing association?
Yes, every housing association has its own complaints procedure. In addition, you can contact the Authority for Housing Corporations.
Can I request information about my rental property?
Yes, you have the right to information about your property, rent price and the associated points assessment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Zoetermeer
What are my tenant rights?
As a tenant, you have the right to safe, well-maintained housing, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the option to take action in case of uninhabitable conditions.
Can my rent be increased just like that?
No, rent increases are subject to statutory rules. The housing association must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the permitted limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be kept by the landlord in an account and repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy period, provided there is no damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate your tenancy according to the notice period in your contract, usually in writing and observing the notice period.
What if my property has defects?
Request the landlord in writing to carry out repairs within a reasonable period. If no action is taken, you may carry out the repairs yourself and deduct the costs after notification.
Practical Information for Zoetermeer
Court: District Court of The Hague (district)
Legal Aid: Juridisch Loket Zoetermeer