Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Committee. This independent organization helps to resolve disputes about rent, service costs, maintenance and other rental issues. Many tenants and landlords, however, do not know exactly what the Rent Committee does, how a procedure works, and what you can expect from them. In this article, we explain step by step.

What is the Rent Committee?

The Rent Committee is a national, independent body that deals with disputes between tenants and landlords. Consider this:

• A high rent at the start of a rental agreement

• Disputes about annual rent increases

• Disagreements about service costs

• Complaints about neglected maintenance

• Disputes about the amount of the deposit

The rulings of the Rent Committee are binding, unless one of the parties goes to court within eight weeks.

👉 Official website: rentcommittee.nl

When can you go to the Rent Committee?

You can start a procedure at the Rent Committee if you and your landlord (or tenant) cannot work it out together. The most common situations are:

1. Rent check – Are you unsure if the rent is too high? The Rent Committee can test this against the statutory rules.

2. Rent increase – If you disagree with a proposed rent increase.

3. Service costs – For example, if there is a lack of clarity about cleaning or energy costs.

4. Maintenance defects – Think of mold, leaks or broken facilities.

5. Return of deposit – In case of a dispute at the end of the rental period.

How does a procedure at the Rent Committee work?

A procedure consists of different steps:

1. Submit a request

The tenant or landlord submits a request for help. This can be done simply via the website of the Rent Committee.

2. Pay the fees

A small fee must be paid. If you are found to be in the right, you will usually get these costs back.

3. Treatment of the case

The Rent Committee reviews the documents and can organize a hearing. Sometimes the house itself is also visited.

4. Decision

The Rent Committee makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant disagree, the case can still be brought before the court.

What are the advantages of the Rent Committee?

• Accessible: You do not need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

• Independent: The committee is neutral and makes fair decisions based on the law.

• Fast: Procedures usually take several months, shorter than many court procedures.

Difference between Rent Committee and court

Many people wonder: should I go to the Rent Committee or to court?

• Rent Committee: suitable for rental disputes about price, service costs or maintenance. The procedure is easily accessible and cheaper.

• Court: necessary if you also want to take other legal issues into account, such as termination of the lease or compensation.

Sometimes it is wise to first try the Rent Committee, because it is less costly and gives faster results.

Frequently asked questions about the Rent Committee

1. How much does a procedure at the Rent Committee cost?
The fee usually ranges from €25 to €450, depending on the type of case and whether you are a tenant or landlord.

2. Do I need a lawyer for the Rent Committee?
No, the procedures are designed so that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, hiring a lawyer can be useful to increase your chances.

3. How long does a procedure at the Rent Committee take?
On average, a procedure takes several months. This depends on the complexity of the case and the availability of the committee.

4. Can I appeal a decision of the Rent Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can bring the case to court if you disagree with the ruling.

5. Can I also go to the Rent Committee for commercial rental contracts (like business space)?
No, the Rent Committee only handles living space, not business space.