What Are Housing Associations?
Housing associations are non-profit organisations focused on building, managing, and renting affordable housing. Their core task is to provide suitable accommodation to people with limited income in regions such as Westland.
Core Activities of Housing Associations
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Construction projects | Developing new social rental housing |
| Management | Responsible for maintenance and improvement of properties |
| Rental | Allocation of houses to specific target groups |
| Neighbourhood improvement | Investing in the living environment of neighbourhoods |
| Special groups | Housing for seniors, students, and refugees |
Rights of Tenants in Westland
- Rent protection: Statutory safeguards in tenancy agreements
- Rent control: Limitation of rent via a points system
- Co-determination: Influence via tenants' associations
- Complaints handling: Options for internal and external complaints
- Property quality: Right to a well-maintained home
Tenants' Associations
Your Influence as a Tenant
Tenants in Westland can join a tenants' association. This has decision-making powers and advisory rights on matters such as:
- Policies on rent prices and increases
- Maintenance plans
- Renovation proposals
- Neighbourhood improvement projects
- Costs for additional services
Complaints about Your Housing Association
In case of problems, you can contact:
- The customer service of your housing association
- The internal complaints committee
- The Woonbond for tenants' interests
- The Rent Tribunal for price or maintenance issues
- The court in legal disputes
Supervision of Housing Associations
Housing associations are supervised by:
- Housing Associations Authority (Aw)
- Social Housing Guarantee Fund (WSW)
- Ministry of Housing
May associations distribute profits?
No, as 'admitted institutions', they must reinvest any surpluses in affordable housing.
How do I file a complaint about my association?
Every association has its own complaints procedure. In addition, you can approach the Housing Associations Authority.
Can I request information about my rental property?
Yes, you are entitled to information about your property, rent price, and the associated points calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Renting in Westland
What rights do I have as a tenant?
As a tenant, you are entitled to a safe, decent home, protection against unreasonable rent increases, and you can demand maintenance if the property is uninhabitable.
Can my rent be increased arbitrarily?
No, rent increases follow strict rules. The landlord must announce this in writing at least two months in advance and may not exceed the statutory limit.
What happens to my deposit?
The deposit is deposited by the landlord into an account and must be returned within 30 days after the end of the tenancy, provided there is no damage.
How do I terminate my tenancy?
You can terminate the tenancy according to the notice period in your contract, usually in writing and observing the notice period.
What if my property has defects?
First write to the landlord with a request for repair. If no action follows, you can carry out the repair yourself and deduct the costs from the rent after notification.
Practical Tips for Tenants
Is my rent price fair? The rent is determined via the housing valuation system. Request a points overview from your association. If the rent is too high, you can apply for a reduction from the Rent Tribunal, free of charge and up to three years retroactively.
No response to maintenance issues? Report defects in writing with a deadline (e.g. 3 weeks). If no action is taken, file a complaint with the association's complaints committee. If that does not help, contact the Woonbond or Rent Tribunal.
Relevant authorities in Westland: District Court of The Hague (district), Juridisch Loket Westland.