What is the Rent Tribunal?
The Rent Tribunal is a neutral organisation that resolves conflicts between tenants and landlords in Rijswijk and beyond. It issues binding decisions on matters such as rent prices, service costs and property defects. This is an accessible and affordable alternative to going to court.
What Can the Rent Tribunal Do for You?
| Type of Dispute | Jurisdiction of Rent Tribunal | Costs (2024) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent price check | Yes (social housing) | €25 |
| Objection to rent increase | Yes (social housing) | €25 |
| Service charges | Yes | €25 |
| Property defects | Yes | €25 |
| Maintenance issues | Yes (via defects) | €25 |
| Protection of tenancy rights | No, via court | N/A |
| Eviction | No, via court | N/A |
How Does the Procedure at the Rent Tribunal Work?
- Submit application (digitally or by post)
- Pay fees of €25
- Investigation by the tribunal
- Possible hearing
- Decision within a few months
Decision of the Rent Tribunal
Binding Ruling
The decision of the Rent Tribunal is legally binding, unless an appeal is lodged with the district court within 8 weeks. If this does not happen, the ruling is final and irrevocable.
When to Contact the Rent Tribunal?
- Excessive rent: Within 6 months after start of tenancy agreement
- Property defects: After written complaint to landlord
- Service charges: After receipt of the settlement
- Rent increase: Within 4 months after announcement
Why Choose the Rent Tribunal?
- Accessible and affordable
- No legal representation required
- Professional evaluation
- Faster process compared to court
Can I go to the Rent Tribunal for a private sector property?
To a limited extent. For private sector rental properties, you can only go for service charges and defects, not for rent price checks.
What are the costs of a case at the Rent Tribunal?
A procedure costs €25 per application. The losing party bears these costs.
How long does a case at the Rent Tribunal take?
Usually 4 to 6 months, but for complex cases it may take longer.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rental Disputes in Rijswijk
What are my tenant rights?
As a tenant in Rijswijk, you are entitled to a safe, well-maintained property, protection against unjustified rent increases and the option to take action if the property is uninhabitable.
Can a landlord increase the rent just like that?
No, rent increases must comply with statutory rules. The landlord must notify this in writing at least two months in advance and may not charge more than permitted.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be deposited by the landlord into an account and returned within 30 days after termination of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Rijswijk?
Terminate the tenancy in writing, observing the notice period in your contract. This is often one month, but may vary.
What if my property shows defects?
Report this in writing to the landlord. If no action is taken within a reasonable time, you can carry out repairs yourself and offset the costs against the rent.
Practical Information for Rijswijk
Court: District Court The Hague (district)
Legal Aid: Legal Counter Rijswijk - For free advice on rental issues.