Comparison: liberal versus income-dependent rent increase in Westland
In Westland, with residential areas such as Naaldwijk, Monster, 's-Gravenzande and Kwintsheul, social tenants often distinguish between general (liberal) and income-dependent increases. Understand the difference to manage your expectations, especially with local housing associations such as Vidomes or WestlandWonen.
What is liberal rent increase in Westland?
This is the standard annual increase, set by the minister (e.g. 5.4% in 2024), based on inflation and property valuation. It applies to all tenants in Westland, regardless of income, and is applied to social rental properties in the greenhouse horticulture region.
Differences with income-dependent in Westland
Income-dependent increase can be higher (up to 7.75%) for high incomes above the thresholds, but lower for income decreases. Liberal always applies; income-dependent only above the thresholds. Local housing associations in Westland often combine both, taking into account the relatively high incomes in the horticulture sector.
Your strategy in Westland
Check which increase applies in your rental letter from your Westland housing association. In case of a combination, you can object to the income-dependent part via the Rent Tribunal. Take into account the total impact on your budget, including local costs such as energy bills for horticulture-related homes.