Checking Your Rental Agreement in Rijswijk - Key Points of Attention
Before signing a rental agreement in Rijswijk, it is crucial to thoroughly review it. Some conditions may be unreasonable or legally invalid. This article provides an overview of the most important points to watch out for.
Key Points for Your Rental Agreement
1. Details of the Parties
- ☐ Are the name and address of the landlord correct?
- ☐ Is the landlord authorized or the owner of the property?
- ☐ Do your personal details match?
2. Description of the Property
- ☐ Is the address in Rijswijk complete and correct?
- ☐ Are additional spaces such as a garage or storage mentioned?
- ☐ Does the stated surface area match?
3. Rental Costs
- ☐ Is the base rent price clearly stated?
- ☐ Are the service charges specified?
- ☐ Is the difference between all-in and bare rent clear?
- ☐ Is the rent price in line with the market in Rijswijk?
4. Duration and Termination
- ☐ Is the start date correctly included?
- ☐ Is it a temporary or indefinite contract?
- ☐ What is the notice period for both parties?
- ☐ Are there rules for interim termination?
Common Issues
Unrealistic Rent Increases
Pay attention to the rules for rent increases:
- Social housing: Limited to the statutory maximum
- Private sector: Often CPI + a percentage, more than CPI + 3% is high
- Warning: Avoid clauses with unlimited increases
Penalties and Sanctions
Penalties must be fair:
- Penalty for late payment: usually between €25-50 per month
- Unreasonable penalties can be legally reduced
- Penalties may not exceed the actual costs
Maintenance Arrangements
Check who is responsible:
- Minor repairs: Often the tenant (according to law)
- Major repairs: Always the landlord
- Pay attention: Unreasonable deviations may be invalid
Invalid Conditions
Certain clauses are invalid or challengeable:
| Invalid Condition | Explanation |
|---|---|
| No rent protection | Not permitted for residential spaces |
| Rent above WWS points limit | For social housing |
| Prohibition on co-tenancy | Against the law |
| Unilateral termination by landlord | Not without legal basis |
Specific Clauses in Rijswijk
Diplomat clause
This allows a landlord to terminate if the property is needed for themselves:
- Must be explicitly and in advance agreed
- Strict conditions apply
- Have this reviewed by an expert
Renovation Arrangements
Conditions regarding renovations during tenancy:
- Landlord may not renovate without permission
- 70% consent required for complexes
- Right to return after renovation
Rules on Pets
A ban on pets is possible, but:
- Must be explicitly stated in the contract
- Difficult to enforce for existing pets
- Guide dogs are always permitted
Review Attachments
- ☐ Is a handover report available?
- ☐ Energy label present?
- ☐ House rules for apartments in Rijswijk?
- ☐ Inventory list for furnished rental?
Doubt about the Contract?
- Do not sign immediately: Ask for extra time
- Request clarification: Contact the landlord
- Seek advice: From Juridisch Loket Rijswijk, tenant team, or a lawyer
- Negotiate: Request amendment of unreasonable points
- Consider: Does this property suit you, despite the conditions?
After Signing
Even after signing, there are options:
- Check rent price: Within 6 months via Huurcommissie (social housing)
- Invalid clauses: Can always be challenged
- Service charges: Review annually and file objection
Frequently Asked Questions in Rijswijk
Am I required to accept all conditions?
No, negotiation is possible. Keep in mind that the landlord can also choose another tenant.
Can I still challenge a signed contract?
Yes, invalid conditions are not legally binding, even after signing. Challengeable conditions must be disputed by you.
Where can I have my contract reviewed in Rijswijk?
At Juridisch Loket Rijswijk (free of charge), local tenant teams, or a lawyer specialized in tenancy law.
Take sufficient time to check your rental agreement in Rijswijk. A good start prevents later problems.