Rent Determination in Temporary Tenancy Agreements in Westland
In Westland, with its greenhouse complexes and residential areas in locations such as Naaldwijk, Monster, and Kwintsheul, the rent price limitation under Article 7:249 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) also applies to short-term lettings. The maximum rent is determined using the Housing Valuation System (WWS), based on points for surface area, facilities such as insulation against the Westland climate, and energy performance. Landlords in this region may not charge excessive amounts, particularly not for temporary housing for seasonal workers in greenhouse horticulture.
Indexation and Adjustment in Westland
The annual rent increase is limited to the inflation rate plus 1% (Article 7:247 BW). For short-term contracts in Westland, any adjustment must be communicated in writing and in a timely manner, for example, when extending a temporary contract for greenhouse employees. Tenants may lodge an objection with the Rent Tribunal if the price exceeds the statutory maximum, with specific attention to local housing rulings.
Practical Tips for Tenants in Westland
Use the rent check tool on huurcommissie.nl to assess your rent in Westland against the WWS. If the rent exceeds the limit, you may demand a rent reduction with retroactive effect for up to two years. For temporary lettings in this municipality, no liberalisation criteria apply, so a WWS check is always required, including for accommodations near the horticultural area. Local advocacy organisations such as the Huurteam Westland provide additional advice.
Recent rulings by the Dutch Supreme Court emphasise that creeping rent increases through repeated short-term contracts are illegal, a common issue in flexible labour arrangements in Westland.