What Does Social Rent Mean?
Social housing consists of affordable homes intended for households with low to middle income. The rent price remains below the liberalisation threshold of €879.66 (2024) and these homes are generally rented out by housing associations in Rijswijk and surrounding areas. Specific rules and tenant protection apply.
Characteristics of Social Rent
| Characteristic | Social Rent | Private Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum rent price | €879.66 (2024) | No limit |
| Rent increase | Legally limited | Market-based (with threshold) |
| Income limit | Yes (€47,699 in 2024) | No |
| Waiting period | Often lengthy | Immediately available |
| Rent allowance | Possible | Often not |
| Points system | Yes | No |
Who Can Get Social Housing in Rijswijk?
To qualify for social housing in Rijswijk, you must meet the following criteria:
- Income norm: Your income may not exceed €47,699 (for a one-person household in 2024)
- Registration: You must be registered with a housing association in the region
- Age requirement: You must be at least 18 years old
- Regional connection: In some cases, a social or economic connection to Rijswijk is required
How Do I Register for Social Rent in Rijswijk?
Registration Steps
- Find the housing allocation in the Haaglanden region (for example via WoningNet)
- Register yourself (often for a small annual fee)
- Accumulate waiting time by remaining registered
- Respond to available homes once it is your turn
Waiting Time in Rijswijk and Surrounding Areas
The waiting time for social housing varies by area:
- Rijswijk and Randstad: 5-10 years
- Amsterdam: 10-15 years
- Utrecht: 8-12 years
- Outside the Randstad: 2-5 years
Suitable Allocation in Rijswijk
Housing associations apply the principle of suitable allocation:
- Your income must match the rent price
- 95% of the homes go to households below the income threshold
- A small percentage (5%) is available for middle incomes
Can I get social housing with a higher income?
Generally no, unless you have been on the waiting list for a long time and your income has only recently increased. There is limited room for middle incomes.
What if my income increases after allocation?
You may continue to live there, but you may be subject to income-dependent rent increases.
Do I qualify for rent allowance?
Yes, provided you meet the conditions such as income, assets, and rent price.
Frequently Asked Questions about Social Rent in Rijswijk
What are my rights as a tenant in Rijswijk?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe, well-maintained home, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the option to take action if the home is not habitable.
Can the landlord just increase the rent?
No, rent increases are subject to statutory rules. The landlord must inform you in writing at least two months in advance and may not increase the rent more than permitted.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit is deposited by the landlord into an account and must be refunded within 30 days after the end of the tenancy period, provided no damage has been found.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate the tenancy in accordance with the notice period in your contract, usually in writing and observing the agreed period.
What do I do if my home has defects?
First contact the landlord in writing for repairs. If no action is taken, you can have repairs carried out yourself and possibly offset the costs against the rent.