Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Commission. This independent organisation helps to resolve disputes about rent prices, service costs, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords are unsure exactly what the Rent Commission does, how a procedure works and what you can expect from them. In this article, we will 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 for example of:

• A too high rent price at the start of a lease

• Discussions about annual rent increases

• Disagreement about service costs

• Complaints about overdue maintenance

• Discussions about the amount of the deposit

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

👉 Official website: huurcommissie.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) can’t solve it together. The most common situations are:

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

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

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

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

5. Refund deposit – In case of a dispute after the end of the rental period.

How does a procedure work at the Rent Commission?

A procedure proceeds in several steps:

1. Submitting a request

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

2. Payment of fees

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

3. Handling of the case

The Rent Commission looks at the documents and can organize a hearing. Sometimes they also visit the house itself.

4. Judgement

The Rent Commission makes a binding judgement. Only if you or your landlord/tenant disagrees can the case still be taken to court.

What are the advantages of the Rent Commission?

• Accessible: You do not need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

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

• Fast: Procedures usually take a few months, shorter than many legal procedures.

Difference between Rent Commission and judge

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

• Rent Commission: suitable for rental disputes about price, service costs or maintenance. The procedure is low threshold 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, as this is less costly and yields faster results.

Frequently asked questions about the Rent Commission

1. How much does a procedure at the Rent Commission cost?
The fees usually range 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 designed so that you can file your case without a lawyer. However, hiring a lawyer may be useful 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 object to a decision of the Rent Commission?
Yes, within eight weeks you can present the case to the judge if you do not agree with the verdict.

5. Can I also go to the Rent Commission for commercial rental contracts (such as commercial space)?
No, the Rent Commission only handles housing, not commercial space.