Rent Increase in Rijswijk - Rules and Rights
In Rijswijk, landlords may adjust the rent annually, but this must comply with specific legislation and regulations. The permitted rent increase depends on whether it concerns social housing or the private sector. Discover here your options to object.
Social Housing Rent Increase in Rijswijk
For dwellings with a rent price up to €879.66 (2024), the following rules apply:
Maximum Rent Increase 2024
| Situation | Maximum increase |
|---|---|
| Regular increase | 5.8% |
| Income-dependent (high income) | Maximum €100 extra |
| Rent under €300 | Maximum €25 extra |
Income-Related Increase
For households with a higher income, an additional increase may be applied:
- Income above approximately €52,000 (single-person household)
- Income above approximately €61,000 (multi-person household)
Private Sector Rent Increase
For rental dwellings above €879.66 in Rijswijk:
- No fixed maximum until 2024
- Contractual conditions determine the increase
- Often based on inflation (CPI) plus a surcharge
- The Affordable Rent Act introduces a limit of inflation + 1%
Process of Rent Increase
Landlords in Rijswijk must adhere to a strict procedure:
- Written notice: At least 2 months before the start date
- Details: Current rent, new rent, start date, percentage
- Substantiation: For income-dependent increase: proof of income
- Opportunity to respond: Tenants must be able to lodge an objection
When is a Rent Increase Not Permitted?
- If the tenancy period is shorter than 12 months
- If there has already been an increase within 12 months
- If the procedure has not been properly followed
- If the rent exceeds the WWS maximum
- If the dwelling has serious defects
Lodging an Objection in Rijswijk
You can object if:
- The increase exceeds the statutory maximum
- The procedure has not been correctly followed
- The rent after increase exceeds the points system limit
- There are major maintenance issues
Objection Procedure
- Send a written objection to the landlord within the deadline
- State the reason for your objection
- Pay the old rent under reservation
- If necessary, involve the Rent Tribunal via the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk
Rent Increase and Dwelling Defects
In case of serious problems with the dwelling:
- You can challenge the rent increase
- Report the defect to the landlord first
- If no solution is forthcoming: report it to the Rent Tribunal
- The Rent Tribunal may block the increase
Possibility of Rent Reduction
In some cases, the rent may be reduced:
- If your income decreases (for income-dependent increase)
- If the dwelling value decreases (e.g., due to a worse energy label)
- If you submit a request to the landlord or Rent Tribunal
Rent Harmonisation for New Tenants
For a new tenant in Rijswijk, the landlord may:
- Increase the rent to the maximum according to the WWS
- This process is called harmonisation
- Applies exclusively to a new tenancy agreement
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent Increases
Am I obliged to accept a rent increase?
If you do not object, the increase is automatically accepted. Lodge an objection on time if you disagree.
What if I cannot pay the rent increase?
Discuss a payment arrangement with your landlord. Also check if you qualify for rent allowance.
Does a rent increase affect my rent allowance?
Yes, a higher rent may result in a higher allowance, up to the maximum amount.
Check every rent increase proposal carefully. You have the right to take action if it does not comply with the rules. For legal assistance, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or submit matters to the District Court of The Hague.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my rights as a tenant in Rijswijk?
As a tenant, you are entitled to a safe dwelling, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the possibility to object if the dwelling is not habitable.
Can a landlord increase the rent just like that?
No, rent increases must comply with statutory rules. The landlord must inform you 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 repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless there is damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate your tenancy observing the notice period in your contract. Contact the Juridisch Loket Rijswijk for advice.