Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Commission. This independent organization helps in resolving disputes about rental prices, service costs, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords do not exactly know what the Rent Commission does, how a procedure proceeds and what you can expect from them. In this article we explain it step by step.

What is the Rent Commission?

The Rent Commission is a national, independent body that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Think about:

• A too high rent at the start of a lease

• Discussions about annual rent increases

• Disagreement about service costs

• Complaints about backlog maintenance

• Discussions about the amount of the deposit

The judgment of the Rent Commission is binding, unless one of the parties goes to court within eight weeks.

👉 Official website: rentcommission.nl

When can you go to the Rent Commission?

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

1. Rent check – Are you doubting whether the rent is too high? The Rent Commission can test this against the legal rules.

2. Rent increase – If you do not agree with a proposed rent increase.

3. Service costs – For example, if there is uncertainty about costs for cleaning or energy.

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

5. Repayment deposit – In the event of a dispute after the end of the rental period.

How does a procedure at the Rent Commission work?

A procedure takes place in different steps:

1. Submit a request

The tenant or landlord submits a petition. This can be done easily via the website of the Rent Commission.

2. Pay fees

A small fee (fees) must be paid. If you are proven right, you usually get these costs back.

3. Handling of the case

The Rent Commission examines the documents and can organize a hearing. Sometimes also the dwelling itself is visited.

4. Judgment

The Rent Commission makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant does not agree, can the case still be submitted to the court.

What are the advantages of the Rent Commission?

• Accessible: You do not need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

• Independent: The committee is neutral and decides fairly based on the law.

• Quick: Procedures usually last a few months, shorter than many legal procedures.

Difference between Rent Commission and judge

Many people wonder: should I go to the Rent Commission or to the judge?

• Rent Commission: suitable for rent disputes on price, service costs or maintenance. The procedure is accessible and cheaper.

• Judge: necessary if you also want to include other legal issues, such as termination of the lease or compensation.

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

Frequently asked questions about the Rent Commission

1. How much does a procedure at the Rent Commission cost?
The fees are usually 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 Rent Commission?
No, the procedures are set up in such a way that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, involving a lawyer might be handy to increase your chances.

3. How long does a procedure at the Rent Commission take?
On average a procedure takes a few months. This depends on the complexity of the case and the availability of the commission.

4. Can I appeal against a decision of the Rent Commission?
Yes, within eight weeks you can submit the case to the court if you do not agree with the decision.

5. Can I also go to the Rent Commission for commercial leases (such as business space)?
No, the Rent Commission only handles living space, not business space.