Service Charge Settlement in Westland: Obligations and Rules
In Westland, every landlord is obliged to settle service charges transparently. Learn here about your rights as a tenant regarding the service charge settlement and how to address incorrect calculations.
In Westland, known for its greenhouses and horticulture, many people rent homes with service charges for maintenance, cleaning and security. As a tenant, you are entitled to a transparent and correct settlement. The landlord must send a clear specification annually in accordance with the law. This article for Westland tenants explains what you need to know about service charges, the legal rules and how to enforce your rights at the Rechtbank Den Haag or the Juridisch Loket Westland.
Service charges often lead to disputes, especially in complexes with many rental properties. Incomplete or unreasonable settlements can cost you unjustly a lot of money. Knowledge of the legislation helps you prevent this.
What does a service charge settlement in Westland entail?
The service charge settlement is an annual overview of expenditures for common facilities in your home or building. Typical costs in Westland include:
- Maintenance and cleaning of stairwells, lifts and garden beds around greenhouses
- Security such as cameras and locks for burglary prevention
- Energy for central heating, lighting and hot water
- Gardens and green spaces, including winter preparation
- Waste collection and recycling services
The landlord must prove that costs have actually been incurred and are market-conform. The settlement must be detailed and verifiable.
Legal obligations in Westland
The rules are set out in:
- Tenancy Act 2021 (arts. 7:240-7:245 CC): Regulates settlements and rights.
- Art. 7:240 CC: Costs must be reasonable and fair.
- Art. 7:241 CC: Annual settlement obligatory.
- Art. 7:242 CC: Right to inspection and access to receipts.
- Art. 7:243 CC: Advances only if agreed.
The Decree on Service Charges specifies the required details. In case of disputes, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Westland or the Rechtbank Den Haag (district).
Examples from Westland practice
Example 1: Unclear cleaning costs
A landlord in Westland charges €450 for stairwell cleaning, without specifying hours or rates. You may demand a detailed overview on the basis of art. 7:242 CC.
Example 2: Exaggerated security costs
€1,000 per year for security in a quiet Westland neighbourhood? Compare with local rates (€500 average) and challenge with the landlord or via the Juridisch Loket Westland.
Example 3: Absent settlement
No annual settlement received for your apartment? The landlord breaches art. 7:241 CC. Demand it and, if necessary, go to the Rechtbank Den Haag.
Example 4: Unreasonable energy costs
In a Westland complex with old heating, you pay €800 extra. Request meter readings and invoices; unreasonable costs are not chargeable.
Your rights as a tenant in Westland
You may always:
- Inspect the settlement within a reasonable period.
- Demand access to invoices and contracts.
- Reclaim overpaid service charges (up to 5 years back).
What to do in case of problems?
- Send a registered letter to the landlord with your objections.
- Contact Juridisch Loket Westland for free advice.
- Initiate proceedings at the Rechtbank Den Haag (district) if necessary.