Many expats in the Netherlands pay a high rent for their home. Often they don’t know that the rent can be assessed by the Rent Tribunal. This is an independent body that determines whether the rent is fair and reasonable.
The tenancy law lawyers at Arslan Advocaten explain how expats can request a rent check, when this is useful, and which rights you have.
Why rents for expats are often too high
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Expats don’t know the rules – landlords charge higher rent because they expect expats to accept this.
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Furnished homes – too much is often charged for furniture and upholstery.
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Tight housing market – expats feel forced to agree to a high price.
The role of the Rent Tribunal
The Rent Tribunal is an independent organization that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. You can go here for:
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Assessment of the initial rent price.
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Verification of the annual rent increase.
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Disputes about service charges and deposit.
How does a rent price check work?
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Submitting a request
You can have a rent price check carried out within 6 months after the start of the rental contract. -
Housing Valuation System (points system)
The Rent Tribunal determines the maximum reasonable rent based on points (size, amenities, energy label, location). -
Ruling
If the rent is too high, it is reduced to the maximum reasonable rent. This can save hundreds of euros per month.
Real-world examples
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Expat in Utrecht: paid € 1.200 for a small studio. After assessment by the Rent Tribunal, the rent was reduced to € 650.
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Expats in The Hague: faced an annual rent increase of 10%. The Rent Tribunal determined that only 3% was permitted.
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International student in Amsterdam: paid too much for furniture. This extra rent was reversed.
Checklist for expats for a rent price check
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📑 Check whether your home falls under the points system falls (often for social and mid-market rentals).
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🧾 Keep the rental contract and payment receipts.
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📉 Request a rent price assessment within 6 months of the start date.
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⚖️ Consult a lawyer in case of a dispute or appeal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. As an expat, can I request a rent price check?
Yes, expats have the same rights as Dutch tenants.
2. Within what time frame must I do this?
Within 6 months of 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 too late with the application?
Then you can often still have the rent assessed, but no longer with retroactive effect.
Conclusion
Expats often pay too much rent, but can have this corrected through the Rent Tribunal. Know that you have the same rights as Dutch tenants and that you can save substantial amounts.
The tenancy law attorneys of Arslan Advocaten assist expats with rent price checks, disputes over rent increases, and proceedings before the Rent Tribunal.
