Maximum Rent Increase Rules After Liberalisation in Westland

In the free sector in Westland, after liberalisation of rental properties in greenhouse complexes and new construction at Verdiplein, no statutory maxima apply to rent increases; landlords and tenants negotiate freely, often annually with CPI +2-3% due to the local horticulture economy. Social housing in Westland remains limited to inflation (3.3% in 2024) plus investments in energy-efficient greenhouse horticulture improvements. Transitional rules: first liberalisation year max. 5% for sitting tenants in neighbourhoods such as Naaldwijk and Monster. Good Landlordship Act (2019) prohibits unreasonable increases; the Rent Tribunal assesses reasonableness upon complaint, taking into account Westland seasonal labour. Region-specific scale: 1st year 4%, 2nd 5%, thereafter free with indexation to CBS inflation. Tenants in Westland sign rent increase proposal or agree tacitly after 2 months. Disputes are settled via the district court in The Hague. Practice: free sector in Westland sees 8-12% increases due to housing shortage for greenhouse personnel and proximity to Randstad. Advice: include fixed rental periods in contracts, plus local clauses for harvest seasons. Tax impact: higher rent reduces mortgage interest deduction for Westland starters. Municipality of Westland offers model letters via website. During corona, temporary ceilings introduced for vulnerable greenhouse growers. Future: EU directive on affordable rent may impose limits on Westland liberalisations. This clearly separates sectors in our region. (198 words)