Liberalisation Threshold: Social Housing or Free Sector in Westland
In Westland, the liberalisation threshold plays a crucial role in determining whether a property falls under social housing or the free sector. This affects your rights as a tenant, particularly in the area of rent protection.
Definition of Liberalisation Threshold
The liberalisation threshold is a rent amount that distinguishes between:
- Below the threshold: Social housing with extensive rent protection
- Above the threshold: Free sector with minimal protection
For 2024, this threshold has been set at €879.66 per month (bare rent).
Determining Moment
The category into which a property falls depends on the initial rent:
- The rent price at the start of the contract is decisive
- Subsequent increases do not change the category
- A property in the free sector remains so for the duration of the contract
Differences in Rights
| Category | Social Housing | Free Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Rent protection | Yes (via points system) | No* |
| Review of initial rent | Yes | No |
| Maximum rent increase | Legally determined | As per contract |
| Tenancy protection | Yes | Yes |
| Eligibility for rent allowance | Yes | No (rent too high) |
*The Affordable Rent Act provides additional protection for mid-range rental properties.
Points System and Threshold
The liberalisation threshold corresponds to approximately 147 points in the property valuation system:
- Fewer than 147 points: Social housing (except if initial rent is higher)
- 147 points or higher: Suitable for free sector letting
Impact for Tenants in Westland
Social Housing
- Possibility of rent review via the Rent Tribunal
- Maximum rent based on property points
- Limited annual rent increase
- Chance of rent allowance
Free Sector
- No review of the initial rent
- Landlord sets the rent price
- Rent increase as per agreement
- No entitlement to rent allowance
New Legislation: Affordable Rent Act (2024)
Recent legislation brings changes:
- Points system extended to mid-range rentals (up to approximately 186 points)
- More properties receive rent protection
- Maximum rent prices also for mid-segment
Check: Social Housing or Free Sector?
- Look at the initial rent in your contract
- Was it lower than €879.66 (or the threshold for that year)?
- Yes: social housing with protection
- No: free sector with fewer rights
Liberalisation Threshold per Year
| Year | Threshold Amount |
|---|---|
| 2024 | €879.66 |
| 2023 | €808.06 |
| 2022 | €763.47 |
| 2021 | €752.33 |
| 2020 | €737.14 |
Frequently Asked Questions in Westland
My rent is now above the threshold due to increases. Am I now free sector?
No, the initial rent is decisive. If it started below the threshold, you remain a social housing tenant.
Can I switch from free sector to social housing?
This is only possible if the property has too few points for free sector. Have this checked.
My property has 140 points, but the rent is €950. What now?
The property belongs to social housing. You can apply for a rent reduction via the Rent Tribunal.
The liberalisation threshold is essential for your tenancy rights in Westland. Know where you stand and whether you are entitled to protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my tenancy rights in Westland?
As a tenant, you are entitled to a safe, decent property, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and the possibility to take action if the property is uninhabitable.
Can my landlord increase the rent just like that?
No, rent increases follow strict rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not charge more than legally permitted.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit must be deposited by the landlord into an account and repaid within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, unless there is damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate with observance of the notice period in your contract, usually in writing.