Social Housing Rent Prices in Westland - The Points System Explained
In Westland, the maximum rent price of social rental housing is determined by the housing valuation system (WWS), better known as the points system. This system assigns points to a property based on specific characteristics, which sets the highest permissible rent price.
What Does the Points System Entail?
The WWS provides a standardised way to assess the value of a rental property:
- Each property characteristic receives a number of points
- The total number of points determines the maximum rent
- Applies to social rental housing (up to €879.66 in 2024)
- With the Affordable Rent Act, this system is extended to mid-rent segments
Which Characteristics Count for Points?
| Characteristic | Points (approximately) |
|---|---|
| Living area | 1 point per m² |
| Other spaces | 0.75 points per m² |
| Heating system | 2-3 points |
| Energy label | -15 to +44 points |
| Kitchen facilities | 0-10 points |
| Sanitary facilities | 0-12 points |
| Outdoor space (such as balcony or garden) | 2-15 points |
| WOZ value | Varies (approximately 1 point per €12,000) |
From Points to Rent Amount
The Rent Tribunal establishes an overview annually in which points are linked to maximum rent prices. Some examples for 2024:
| Number of points | Maximum basic rent |
|---|---|
| 80 points | approximately €440 |
| 100 points | approximately €560 |
| 120 points | approximately €680 |
| 140 points | approximately €800 |
| 147+ points | Above the liberalisation threshold |
The Liberalisation Threshold in Westland
For 2024, the liberalisation threshold has been set at €879.66 (approximately 147 points):
- Below this threshold: Social rent, points system is binding
- Above this threshold: Private sector, rent price is freely determined
Impact of Energy Label on Points
The energy label plays an important role in the points calculation:
| Energy label | Impact on points |
|---|---|
| A++++ to A+ | +30 to +44 points |
| A | +22 points |
| B | +14 points |
| C | +8 points |
| D | +4 points |
| E | 0 points |
| F | -5 points |
| G | -15 points |
Calculate the Points of Your Property Yourself
You can make an estimate of your property's points yourself:
- Use the Rent Price Check on huurcommissie.nl
- Measure all spaces carefully
- Check the property's energy label
- Consult the WOZ value via WOZwaardeloket.nl
Have Your Rent Price Checked in Westland
Do you suspect you are paying too much rent?
- Within 6 months after start of tenancy agreement: Assessment can have retroactive effect
- After 6 months: Any reduction applies from the date of application
- Process: Application via the Rent Tribunal (cost €25)
Introduction Affordable Rent Act (2024)
The new legislation expands the scope of the points system:
- Applies to mid-rent (up to approximately 186 points)
- More rental properties fall under rent price regulation
- Stricter conditions for the private sector
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent in Westland
How can I find out the points calculation of my property?
Your landlord is obliged to provide this information upon request. If not, you can engage the Rent Tribunal for a calculation.
May a landlord charge more rent than permitted?
No, for social rent the maximum rent price is legally established. If the rent is too high, you can have it assessed.
Does a storage space count in the points calculation?
Yes, as other space it yields 0.75 points per m².
The points system ensures that tenants in Westland do not pay too much. Check whether your rent price matches the points of your property.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rights do I have as a tenant in Westland?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe and well-maintained property, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the possibility to object if the property is not habitable.
Can my landlord increase the rent just like that?
No, rent increases are subject to strict rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not charge more than legally 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 damage has been identified.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Westland?
You can terminate the tenancy observing the statutory notice period, usually one month, by written notification to the landlord.