Maximum Rent Increase in the Social Sector in Rijswijk

Maximum Rent Increase in the Social Sector in Rijswijk

In Rijswijk, a vibrant municipality near The Hague, the maximum rent increase in the social housing sector is a crucial topic for many residents. This legally capped price adjustment helps tenants with limited budgets maintain affordable housing. The government sets the limits for homes below the liberalization threshold of €879.66 in 2024. This article discusses the rules, how it works, and your options as a resident of Rijswijk, including local advice via Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk.

The Social Housing Sector in Rijswijk

In Rijswijk, the social housing sector provides affordable options through housing associations like Haag Wonen or local partners. These homes are intended for first-time buyers, families, and seniors with average incomes. A property qualifies as social housing if the bare rent is below the liberalization threshold of €879.66 per month (excluding service charges) in 2024. Above that, properties fall into the private sector with more flexible increases. The Municipality of Rijswijk supports tenants with information on local housing market initiatives. Learn more about rent increases in our overview article.

Legal Rules for Rent Increase in Rijswijk

The foundation for rent increases in the social sector is outlined in the Dutch Civil Code, specifically Article 7:268 BW. Landlords may only raise the rent after written agreement or within established limits. The Minister of the Interior determines the maximum annually through a ministerial decree published in the Official Gazette, which also applies to Rijswijk.

In 2024, the rent increase in the social sector in Rijswijk is capped at 5.4% for most tenants, linked to inflation (CPI) and housing maintenance costs. For low-income households, it is limited to 3% if income is below €24,625 (single persons) or €33,375 (families) in 2024; these thresholds are adjusted annually. The notification must be provided in writing at least two months before July 1. If you encounter issues in Rijswijk, seek advice from Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk or the Rent Assessment Committee for binding decisions. For complex matters, the District Court of Rijswijk has jurisdiction.

How to Calculate the Maximum Rent Increase in Rijswijk?

The maximum rent increase is calculated based on your bare rent in Rijswijk. Service charges can be increased separately, provided they are based on actual expenses and transparent.

Step-by-step guide:

1. Check your current bare rent price.
2. Ensure the property is below the liberalization threshold.
3. Apply the maximum: 5.4% on €600 = an extra €32.40.
4. For low income: Use 3% after verification via the tax authority.
5. The rent cannot exceed the threshold without approval.

For improvements such as energy-efficient upgrades—relevant in Rijswijk with its focus on sustainability—a higher increase may be proposed, but only with Rent Assessment Committee approval and limited to the investment costs.

Overview of Maximum Increases Over the Years

These variations reflect economic trends, such as the inflation spike in 2024, which also impacts the Rijswijk housing market.

Examples of Rent Increase in Rijswijk

Consider a social housing unit in the Innenstad neighborhood at €550 per month. With 5.4% in 2024, that adds €29.70, for a total of €579.70. For low income, it’s 3%: a €16.50 increase to €566.50.

Example with improvements: A landlord in Rijswijk invests €5,000 in insulation. The Rent Assessment Committee approves an extra €20 per month for 10 years (€2,400 total, 48% of costs). This is added to the standard increase and requires your written consent.

Many tenants in Rijswijk ignore the increase notice, leading to automatic rises. For instance, a resident in Oud-Rijswijk received a 2% notice in 2023 but didn’t respond, resulting in an unintended increase. Responding promptly via Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk could have allowed for an objection.

Your Rights and Obligations as a Tenant in Rijswijk

In the social sector of Rijswijk, you have strong rights against excessive increases:

• Consent requirement: You must actively agree; silence is not consent since 2015.
• Objection option: Protest within six weeks to the landlord or Rent Assessment Committee (fees €25-€300, income-dependent). Local advice via Het Juridisch Loket Rijswijk is free for low-income individuals.
• Protection against exceeding limits: If the rent reaches the liberalization threshold, challenge it at the District Court of Rijswijk if necessary.

Your obligations include timely rent payments and attention to correspondence. Don’t ignore letters, as that can lead to unintended increases or disputes with the Municipality of Rijswijk.