Rent Adjustment After Improvements in Rijswijk: Rules and Objection

In Rijswijk, a growing municipality in the Haaglanden region with many social housing units, landlords such as housing associations WoonInvest or Vidomes may increase the rent after improvements such as a new kitchen. But which rules apply locally and how do you object? This article explains the legal frameworks, including tips for tenants in Rijswijk.

What are improvements in the Rijswijk context?

Improvements are structural modifications that increase the value of the property, such as energy-efficient windows or a modern bathroom, distinguished from regular maintenance (article 7:243 BW). In Rijswijk, where many flats in neighbourhoods such as Innenpolder or Oud-Rijswijk are being renovated, the Huurcommissie must approve the adjustment for social housing. The municipality often encourages sustainability improvements through subsidies.

Procedure for increase in Rijswijk

The landlord must inform you at least two months before the effective date, for example by letter or via the Rijswijk tenant portal. You can file an objection with the Huurcommissie in The Hague or the district court in The Hague within six weeks. For liberalised tenancies in more expensive single-family homes in Rijswijk, a reasonableness test applies pursuant to article 7:253 BW. Local advice centres such as the Wijkteam Rijswijk offer free assistance with objections.

Rights of the tenant in Rijswijk

Do you refuse to agree? The court assesses the increase for fairness; costs of improvements, such as a new lift in a Rijswijk apartment complex or roof insulation, may not be fully passed on to the tenant. Practical examples: moderate increases after solar panels or facade renovation are often approved. Document everything, such as invoices and correspondence, and consult the Juridisch Loket in Rijswijk for a strong objection. (248 words)