Are you having a dispute with your tenant or landlord? You can usually apply to the Huurcommissie (Rent Commission). This independent organization helps resolve disputes about rent prices, service charges, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords are not exactly sure what the Huurcommissie does, how a procedure proceeds and what they can expect from them. In this article, we explain this topic step by step.
What is the Huurcommissie?
The Huurcommissie is a national, independent institution that deals with disputes between tenants and landlords. Examples of these are:
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An excessively high rent at the start of a rental agreement
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Disputes about annual rent increases
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Service charge disputes
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Complaints about delayed maintenance
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Disputes about the amount of the deposit
The decisions of the Huurcommissie are binding, unless one of the parties appeals to the court within eight weeks.
👉 Official website: huurcommissie.nl
When can you apply to the Huurcommissie?
You can start a procedure at the Huurcommissie when you and your landlord (or tenant) cannot find a solution together. The most common situations are:
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Rent price check – Do you suspect that the rent price is too high? The Huurcommissie can check this according to legal rules.
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Rent Increase – If you disagree with a proposed rent increase.
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Service charges – For example, in cases of uncertainty about cleaning or energy costs.
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Maintenance deficiencies – If you are dealing with problems such as mould, leaks or faulty installations.
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Deposit refund – In case of a dispute arising after the expiration of the rental period.
How does a procedure at the Huurcommissie work?
A procedure proceeds in different steps:
1. Submitting a request
The tenant or landlord submits a request. This can easily be done via the Huurcommissie’s website.
2. Payment of fees
A small fee (fees) must be paid. If you are in your right, you generally get these costs back.
3. Case proceedings
The Huurcommissie can review the documents and organize a hearing. Sometimes the dwelling is also visited.
4. Decision
The Huurcommissie makes a binding decision. Only if you or your tenant/landlord do not agree with this, the case can be brought to court.
What are the advantages of the Huurcommissie?
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Accessible: You do not need a lawyer.
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Affordable: The costs are relatively low.
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Independent: The commission is impartial and makes a fair decision based on laws.
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Fast: Proceedings usually take a few months, which is shorter than many legal proceedings.
Difference between the Huurcommissie and a judge
Many people wonder: Should I go to the Huurcommissie or to a judge?
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Huurcommissie: Is suitable for rental disputes about price, service charges or maintenance.
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Judge: Is needed when you want to bring up other legal issues such as termination of the rental contract or compensation.
It might make sense to first try the Huurcommissie because it can give cheaper and faster results.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Huurcommissie
1. How much does a Huurcommissie procedure cost?
The fees usually vary between €25 and €450, depending on the type of case and whether you are a tenant or landlord.
2. Do I need a lawyer for the Huurcommissie?
No, the procedures are organized in such a way that you can present your case without a lawyer. Nevertheless, it may be beneficial to appoint a lawyer to increase your chances.
3. How long does a Huurcommissie procedure take?
The duration of a procedure is usually a few months. This depends on the complexity of the case and the availability of the commission.
4. Can I appeal against a Huurcommissie decision?
Yes, if you disagree with the decision within eight weeks, you can present the case to a judge.
5. Can I apply to the Huurcommissie for commercial rental contracts (for example, a business premises)?
No, the Huurcommissie only deals with dwellings, not business premises.
