What Does Skew Living Mean?
In Westland and elsewhere, skew living refers to the situation in which someone with a relatively high income lives in a social housing unit. This can result in fewer affordable homes being available for people with lower incomes who need them more urgently. The topic often sparks discussion about fairness and policy.
Types of Skew Living
| Category | Description | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Cheap skew living | High income, low rent price | Possible rent increase based on income |
| Expensive skew living | Lower income, high rent costs | Financial pressure |
Am I a Skew Dweller?
You are considered a skew dweller in Westland if:
- Your annual income is higher than the threshold for social housing (€47,699 in 2024)
- You currently live in a social housing unit
- You would no longer qualify for social housing upon a new application
Rent Increase for High Income
Extra Costs for Higher Income
If your income exceeds €52,753 (2024), your landlord in Westland may apply an additional rent increase:
- €50 per month extra for an income between €52,753 and €62,191
- €100 per month extra for an income above €62,191
The purpose of this is to encourage mobility to other housing forms.
Obliged to Move?
In Westland, you do not have to move if you are skew living:
- You benefit from rent protection
- Your landlord cannot force you to leave
- However, a higher rent increase may be applied
- Housing allowance lapses if your income is too high
Options for Mobility
To promote mobility in Westland, there are alternatives:
- Buy your current social housing unit, sometimes with an attractive discount
- Switch to a property in the private sector or a home for purchase
- Move to a more suitable social housing unit (larger or smaller)
Can I Be Evicted Because of My Income?
No, a high income is not grounds for eviction in Westland. You have the right to remain living there.
What Happens If My Income Decreases?
If your income falls below the threshold, the extra rent increase lapses and you may be able to apply for housing allowance again via the Tax Authorities.
Is Skew Living My Fault?
No, income changes are normal. The current system in Westland and elsewhere is not always aligned with such changes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skew Living in Westland
How Do I Know If I Am Skew Living?
You are a skew dweller if your income is higher than €47,699 (2024) and you live in a social housing unit in Westland. Compare your income to the threshold and check if you would still qualify for social housing. Your landlord can also confirm this via the Tax Authorities.
Can My Landlord Force Me to Move?
No, in Westland a landlord cannot oblige you to move due to a high income. Rent protection remains in effect. However, an extra rent increase may be applied if your income exceeds €52,753.
What Does Skew Living Cost Me Extra?
For an income between €52,753 and €62,191, your landlord may charge €50 extra per month. Above €62,191, that is €100 extra. These costs are in addition to the standard rent increase and lapse if your income decreases.
Will I Lose My Housing Allowance?
Yes, if your income exceeds the housing allowance threshold (€36,798 for singles in 2024), your entitlement to housing allowance lapses. If your income decreases, you can reapply via the Tax Authorities.
What Can I Do as a Skew Dweller?
In Westland, you have choices: 1) Stay living there and pay extra rent. 2) Move to a home for purchase or private sector. 3) Buy your home, sometimes with a discount. 4) Switch to another social housing unit.
Contact and Support in Westland
For legal questions about skew living or rent protection, you can contact the Juridisch Loket Westland. For disputes, you can go to the District Court of The Hague, which serves the Westland district.