Many expats in the Netherlands pay a high rent for their home. Often they do not know that the rent can be checked at the Rent Commission. This is an independent body that determines whether the rent is fair and reasonable.

The tenancy lawyers from Arslan Advocaten explain how expats can request a rent check, when this makes sense and what rights you have.

Why rental prices for expats are often too high

1. Expats do not know the rules – landlords charge higher rent because they expect expats to accept this.

2. Furnished homes – too much is often asked for furniture and upholstery.

3. Tight housing market – expats feel forced to agree with a high price.

The role of the Rent Commission

The Rent Commission is an independent organization that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. You can go here for:

• Testing of the first rent.

• Check of the annual rent increase.

• Disputes about service charges and deposit.

How does a rent check work?

1. Filing a request
   You can have a rent check carried out within 6 months after the start of the rental contract.

2. Housing valuation system (point system)
   The Rent Commission determines the maximum reasonable rent based on points (size, amenities, energy label, location).

3. Verdict
   If the rent is too high, it is reduced to the maximum reasonable rent. This can save hundreds of euros per month.

Examples from practice

• Expat in Utrecht: paid € 1,200 for a small studio. After testing at the Rent Commission, the rent was reduced to € 650.

• Expats in The Hague: faced a yearly rent increase of 10%. The Rent Commission determined that only 3% was allowed.

• International student in Amsterdam: paid too much for furniture. This extra rent was reversed.

Checklist for expats at rent check

• 📑 Check whether your home falls under the point system (often in social and medium rent).

• 🧾 Keep the rental contract and proof of payment.

• 📉 Request a rent check within 6 months of starting.

• ⚖️ Engage a lawyer in case of a dispute or appeal.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. Can I, as an expat, request a rent check?
Yes, expats have the same rights as Dutch tenants.

2. Within what period should I do this?
Within 6 months after the start of the contract.

3. Does this also apply to furnished homes?
Yes, but the extra rent for furniture must be reasonable and is assessed separately.

4. What if I am late with the application?
Then you can often still have the rent checked, but no longer retroactively.

Conclusion

Expats often pay too much rent, but can have this corrected via the Rent Commission. Know that you have the same rights as Dutch tenants and that you can save substantial amounts.

The tenancy lawyers from Arslan Advocaten guide expats at rent checks, disputes about rent increases, and procedures at the Rent Commission.