Applying for Rent Reduction in Rijswijk - Conditions and Steps
As a tenant in Rijswijk, you can apply for rent reduction under specific circumstances. This can be, for example, due to a decrease in your income, defects in the property or a rent price that does not match the quality of the property.
When Are You Eligible for Rent Reduction?
1. Decrease in Income
If your income has decreased after a previous income-based rent increase:
- Income has fallen below the established threshold
- Submit a request to the landlord
- Provide income proof from the Tax Authorities
2. Rent Price Above Property Valuation
If the rent is higher than the maximum rent according to the Housing Valuation System (WWS):
- Have a points assessment carried out
- Request rent reduction from the landlord
- In case of rejection: involve the Rent Tribunal
3. Defects in the Property
In case of serious problems with the property:
- Temporary rent reduction possible until the defects are resolved
- Procedure via the Rent Tribunal
4. Reduced Property Quality
If the property has decreased in value due to, for example:
- A worse energy label
- Removed facilities
- Reduced living area
Step-by-Step Plan for Rent Reduction in Rijswijk
Step 1: Contact with Landlord
- Send a written request to the landlord
- Clearly explain why you want rent reduction
- Attach relevant documents (e.g., income proof or points assessment)
- Set a response period of approximately 4 weeks
Step 2: Involve the Rent Tribunal in Case of Rejection
- Submit an application to the Rent Tribunal
- Pay the handling fee (€25)
- Wait for the ruling after investigation
Rent Reduction for Housing Defects
The Rent Tribunal can impose a temporary rent reduction for defects:
| Type of Defect | Maximum Reduction |
|---|---|
| Category A (very serious) | Maximum 40% of the rent |
| Category B (moderate) | Maximum 20% of the rent |
| Category C (minor) | No reduction |
This reduction remains in effect until the problems are remedied.
Examples of Housing Defects
Category A (very serious)
- No access to running water
- Defective heating systems
- Major leaks
- Pest infestations in the home
- Unsafe electrical installations
Category B (moderate)
- Non-functioning doorbell
- Small leaks at faucets
- Inadequate ventilation
- Small cracks in walls
Retroactive Effect of Rent Reduction
Rent reduction can in some cases be applied retroactively:
- Defects: From the moment of reporting to the landlord
- Excessively high rent: Depending on rules regarding initial rent assessment
- Income decrease: From the date of application
Special Regulation: Rent Freeze or Cap
In some periods, the government may decide on a rent freeze or rent cap:
- No or minimal rent increase permitted
- Sometimes rent reduction for certain tenant groups
- Depending on national policy
Practical Questions about Rent Reduction
How do I prove that my income has decreased?
An income statement from the Tax Authorities, showing your income for a specific year, is sufficient.
Can I get rent reduction if my partner has moved out?
Yes, provided your joint income has fallen below the threshold after a previous income-dependent rent increase.
Is the landlord's consent required?
No, in case of defects or excessively high rent, the Rent Tribunal can enforce a reduction, even without the landlord's approval.
What if the defects are resolved after the ruling?
The temporary rent reduction lapses and the rent returns to the original amount.
In Rijswijk, you can seek legal advice from the Rijswijk Legal Desk. In disputes, the Den Haag District Court may become involved.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent in Rijswijk
What are my rights as a tenant in Rijswijk?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe home, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the ability to take action in case of uninhabitable conditions.
Can my landlord increase the rent arbitrarily?
No, rent increases are subject to statutory rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the permitted limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be kept by the landlord in an account and refunded within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Rijswijk?
The termination must be in writing, observing the notice period in your tenancy agreement, usually one month.