Complex-wide renovation 70% scheme in Rijswijk: your rights as a tenant
The complex-wide renovation 70% scheme protects tenants in Rijswijk during large-scale renovations in residential complexes. Discover how this scheme works locally, via the District Court of The Hague and Legal Counter Rijswijk, and what your options are for rent reduction or compensation.
What does the complex-wide renovation 70% scheme entail for Rijswijk?
This scheme, enshrined in the Housing Allowance Act and Rent Increase Act, requires landlords in Rijswijk to bear at least 70% of the costs for renovations in residential complexes (often 10+ dwellings). The remaining 30% may possibly be passed on to tenants, but only with strict approval. This protects tenants in neighbourhoods such as Steenvoorde or Inckelmeer against excessive rent increases, especially for energy-saving measures such as insulation or new high-efficiency boilers.
In Rijswijk, where many social housing dwellings are located, this prevents housing associations such as Vidomes or Haag Wonen from unilaterally passing on renovation costs. The focus is on sustainable upgrades, in line with the municipality's local energy transition plans.
Legal basis and local application in Rijswijk
Key laws:
- Article 7:230a DCC: Landlord obligation for financing renovations.
- Housing Allowance Act (Wh): Limits rent increases post-renovation.
- Rent Increase Act & Rent Increase Decree (Bh): Maximum pass-through.
- Housing Act: Stricter rules for social housing in Rijswijk.
For tenants in Rijswijk: approach the District Court of The Hague (district) for disputes or the Legal Counter Rijswijk for free advice. They will assess whether your complex meets the criteria.
When does the 70% scheme apply to your Rijswijk complex?
Check these conditions:
1. Residential complex in Rijswijk
For complexes with 10+ dwellings, such as flats in the city centre or on Sir Winston Churchill-laan. Small buildings are excluded.
2. Major, structural renovation
Examples:
- Roof, wall or floor insulation
- Central heating boiler replacement with heat pumps
- Solar panels or asbestos remediation
- Complex-wide kitchen/bathroom upgrades
3. Complex-wide plan
Renovation for the entire complex, such as building insulation or new lifts. Per-dwelling works do not qualify.
4. Significant costs
Usually thousands of euros per unit; if in doubt: check with the Legal Counter Rijswijk.
Your rights as a tenant in Rijswijk
If the landlord refuses to bear 70%, request rent reduction or compensation. Step 1: Write a formal letter. Step 2: Rent Tribunal or District Court of The Hague. In Rijswijk, tenants often report success in enforcing this scheme during housing association renovations.
Practical tips for tenants in Rijswijk
- Check the renovation plan: does it cover 70% landlord financing?
- Consult the Legal Counter Rijswijk (Laan van Haamstede 2B) for intake.
- In proceedings: District Court of The Hague, tenancy law team.
- Conclude a tenants' agreement for a better negotiating position.
This way, you maximise protection under this scheme in Rijswijk.