Rent Increase in Westland - Rules and Rights
In Westland, landlords may adjust the rent annually, but this must comply with strict laws and regulations. The permitted increase differs between social housing and the private sector. Discover your rights and objection options here.
Rules for Social Rent in Westland
For rental properties with a monthly rent up to €879.66 (2024), the following rules apply:
Maximum Rent Increase 2024
| Category | Permitted increase |
|---|---|
| Regular increase | 5.8% |
| Income-dependent (higher income) | Maximum €100 extra |
| Rent price under €300 | Maximum €25 extra |
Income-Related Increase
For households with an income above the threshold, an additional increase may be applied:
- Income above approximately €52,000 (single-person household)
- Income above approximately €61,000 (multi-person household)
Rent Increase Private Sector in Westland
For rental properties above €879.66 (liberalised):
- No fixed maximum until 2024
- Increase based on contractual agreements
- Often linked to inflation (CPI) plus a surcharge
- The Affordable Rent Act limits this to inflation + 1%
Process of Rent Increase
Landlords must follow a fixed procedure:
- Written notice: At least 2 months before the start date
- Details: Current rent, new rent, start date and percentage
- Justification: For income-dependent increase, proof of income
- Opportunity to respond: Tenant must be able to file an objection
When is a Rent Increase Not Permitted?
- For a tenancy period shorter than 12 months
- If there has already been an increase within 12 months
- If the procedure has not been properly followed
- If the rent exceeds the Housing Allowance System (WWS) threshold
- If the property has serious defects
Filing an Objection in Westland
Filing an objection is possible when:
- The increase exceeds the statutory maximum
- The procedure has not been correctly followed
- The rent after increase exceeds the points value
- There are major maintenance issues
Steps for Objection
- Send a written objection within the specified period
- State the reason for your objection
- Pay the old rent under reservation
- Involve the Rent Tribunal if necessary
Rent Increase and Maintenance Defects
In case of serious problems with the property:
- You can challenge the rent increase
- First report the problem to the landlord
- If no action is taken: involve the Rent Tribunal
- The Rent Tribunal may block the increase
Possibility of Rent Reduction
Rent reduction is possible if:
- Your income has decreased (for income-dependent increase)
- The property value decreases (e.g. due to a worse energy label)
- You submit a request to the landlord or Rent Tribunal
Harmonisation for New Tenants
For a new tenant in Westland:
- The rent may be adjusted to the WWS maximum rent
- This is called harmonisation
- Applies exclusively to a new tenancy agreement
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent Increases
Am I required to accept a rent increase?
If you do not object, the increase is automatically accepted. File an objection in time if you disagree.
What if I cannot afford the increase?
Discuss a payment arrangement with the landlord and check if you qualify for rent allowance.
Does a rent increase affect my rent allowance?
Yes, a higher rent may result in a higher allowance, up to the maximum amount.
Check every rent increase proposal carefully. You have the right to take action if it is not correct. For help, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Westland.
Frequently Asked Questions about Rent in Westland
What are my rights as a tenant in Westland?
As a tenant, you have the right to a safe home, protection against unreasonable rent increases and the possibility to take action in case of uninhabitable conditions.
Can a landlord just increase the rent?
No, rent increases must comply with statutory rules. The landlord must inform in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the permitted maximum.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be kept by the landlord in an account and repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless there is damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy in Westland?
Terminating the tenancy can be done observing the notice period in your contract. Contact the Juridisch Loket Westland for advice.