Income-dependent rent increase: rules and explanation in Westland
An **income-dependent rent increase** adjusts the rent based on your income, with protection for lower incomes in Westland. Established since 2015 in the Rent Increase Decree. In the Rechtbank Den Haag region (district), you can go to court in case of disputes. Contact Juridisch Loket Westland for free advice. Learn here how it works and what your rights are.
What is income-dependent rent increase in Westland?
The landlord may only increase the rent if your household income has risen. This applies to private sector and subsidized rental housing in Westland, not to social housing by housing associations or owner-occupied homes. The calculation uses the rent income of all household members, based on the Rent Income Index from the CBS.
The increase follows income development in the Netherlands, but may never exceed your personal income growth.
Legal basis at Rechtbank Den Haag
The rules are set out in:
- Article 7:209a DCC: Limit for private sector in Westland and region.
- Rent Increase Decree 2023: Exact percentages and method.
- Rent Income Index (CBS): Basis for maximum increase.
NB: No application to social rent, long-term contracts (>10 years) or temporary rent such as student rooms. In case of problems: Rechtbank Den Haag or Juridisch Loket Westland.
Calculation of rent increase
Three factors determine the maximum increase:
- Rent Income Index: E.g. 3.5% in 2024 (check CBS).
- Your income increase: Maximum up to your growth if it is higher.
- Statutory cap: Maximum 100% of the index, unless your income rose more.
Example for Westland:
| Situation | Current rent | Rent Income Index | Your increase | Max. increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Income +2% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 2% | €24 (2% of €1,200) |
| Income +5% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 5% | €60 (5% of €1,200) |
| Income unchanged | €1,200 | 3.5% | 0% | No increase |
For help in Westland: call Juridisch Loket Westland or file with Rechtbank Den Haag.