What Does Crooked Living Mean?
In Rijswijk, crooked living refers to the situation in which someone with a relatively high income lives in a social rental property. This can limit access to affordable housing for people who need these homes more urgently. The topic often sparks discussion about possible solutions.
Types of Crooked Living
| Category | Description | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Cheap crooked living | High income, low rent price | Possible rent increase based on income |
| Expensive crooked living | Low income, high rent price | Financial challenges |
Am I a Crooked Liver in Rijswijk?
You are considered a crooked liver if:
- Your annual income is higher than the threshold for social rent (€47,699 in 2024)
- You rent a social rental property
- You would no longer qualify for this property with your current income
Rent Increase Based on Income
Extra Costs for High Income
If your income in 2024 exceeds €52,753, your landlord may apply an additional rent increase:
- €50 extra per month for an income between €52,753 and €62,191
- €100 extra per month for an income above €62,191
This measure is intended to stimulate mobility in Rijswijk.
Do I Have to Move?
No, you do not have to move as a crooked liver:
- You benefit from rent protection
- Your landlord cannot force you to leave
- A higher rent increase may be applied
- You may lose the right to rent allowance
Options for Mobility
In Rijswijk, there are various ways to promote mobility:
- Buy your current social rental property, sometimes with a discount
- Switch to a property in the private sector or a home for purchase
- Move to a more suitable social rental property (larger or smaller)
Can I Be Evicted Because of My Income?
No, an income that is too high is not a valid reason for eviction. You may remain in your property.
What Happens If My Income Decreases?
If your income falls below the threshold, the extra rent increase lapses and you can reapply for rent allowance via the Tax Authorities.
Is Crooked Living My Own Fault?
No, it is normal for incomes to fluctuate. The current system in Rijswijk and elsewhere is not fully adapted to this.
Frequently Asked Questions about Crooked Living in Rijswijk
How Do I Know If I Am Crooked Living?
You are a crooked liver if your income is higher than €47,699 (2024) and you live in a social rental property in Rijswijk. Compare your annual income to this threshold. If you would no longer qualify for social rent now, you are crooked living. Your landlord can also check this via the Tax Authorities.
Can My Landlord Force Me to Move?
No, a landlord cannot oblige you to move, even if your income is too high. Rent protection applies. However, an extra rent increase may be imposed for an income above €52,753.
How Much Extra Rent Do I Pay for Crooked Living?
For an income between €52,753 and €62,191, €50 extra per month may be charged. Above €62,191, this is €100 extra. This is in addition to the standard rent increase.
Will I Lose Rent Allowance?
Yes, if your income exceeds the threshold for rent allowance (€36,798 for singles in 2024), your right to allowance lapses. This also applies to crooked livers in Rijswijk.
What Can I Do as a Crooked Liver?
You can continue living there and pay extra rent, move to a home for purchase or private sector, buy your property (possibly with a discount), or look for another social rental property in Rijswijk.
Contact and Assistance in Rijswijk
For legal questions about crooked living, you can contact the Rijswijk Legal Advice Centre. In case of disputes, a case can be submitted to the District Court of The Hague, under which Rijswijk falls.