Bare rent vs. total rent in housing allowance calculation
The housing allowance strongly depends on your rent. In Westland, the distinction between bare rent and total rent often causes confusion. The Social Insurance Bank (SVB) applies strict rules based on your tenancy agreement. This article for tenants in Westland explains the difference, the calculation method, and actions at the District Court of The Hague (district) or Juridisch Loket Westland.
Difference between bare rent and total rent
The bare rent includes only the basic rent amount for the dwelling itself, without service charges, utilities such as gas, water and electricity, or other extras. This is purely listed as rent in your contract.
The total rent (or gross rent) is the full monthly amount including all mandatory additional costs under the tenancy agreement, such as service charges and fixed utility subscriptions.
Usually, the SVB bases the allowance on the bare rent, but in Westland, local tenancy agreements may deviate if costs are contracted as part of the rent.
Legal basis and SVB rules for Westland
The housing allowance falls under the Participation in Work and Social Welfare Act (Wet werk en bijstand (Wwb)) and General Act on Special Assistance (Algemene wet bijzondere bijstand (Awb)). The SVB administers this; see SVB.nl.
Key SVB rules:
- Bare rent applies as standard for the allowance, except if the contract integrates service charges.
- For integrated costs in Westland tenancy agreements, the total rent may count.
- From 2023: rent threshold € 741.66 (single-person household) for bare rent. Above this limit in Westland: lower or no allowance.
Consult SVB housing allowance guidelines for details. In case of disputes: Juridisch Loket Westland or District Court of The Hague.
Examples of bare vs. total rent in Westland
Example 1: Bare rent only
Case: Apartment in Westland for € 800/month, contract mentions only rent (no service charges).
Bare rent: € 800
Total rent: € 800
Allowance: SVB uses € 800. Above € 741.66 threshold: possibly reduced allowance depending on income. Check via Juridisch Loket Westland.
Example 2: With service charges
Case: Dwelling in Westland € 600 bare rent + € 150 service charges (in contract as one amount).
Bare rent: € 600
Total rent: € 750
Allowance: If service charges are part of the rent, SVB uses € 750. Below threshold: higher allowance possible.
What to do if the allowance in Westland is too low?
1. Check your tenancy agreement for bare vs. total price.
2. Request SVB recalculation with evidence.
3. If rejected: free advice at Juridisch Loket Westland.
4. Objection or appeal at District Court of The Hague (district).
Last updated 2023. Rates may change; check SVB for current rent threshold.