Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Committee. This independent organization helps resolve disputes about rents, service charges, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords do not exactly know what the Rent Committee 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 Committee?

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

• A too high rent price at the start of a rental agreement

• Discussions about annual rent increases

• Disagreement about service charges

• Complaints about overdue maintenance

• Discussions about the amount of the deposit

The decisions 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 questioning whether the rent is too high? The Rent Committee can test this against the legal rules.

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

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

4. Maintenance defects – Consider mold, leaks or broken facilities.

5. Deposit refund – In case of a dispute after the end of the rental period.

How does a procedure at the Rent Committee work?

A procedure proceeds in different steps:

1. Submitting a request

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

2. Payment of legal fees

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

3. Treatment of the case

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

4. Verdict

The Rent Committee makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant do not agree, the case can still be submitted to 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 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 Committee and judge

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

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

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

Sometimes it is wise to try the Rent Committee first, 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 legal 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 Committee?
No, the procedures are designed to submit your case without a lawyer. However, hiring a lawyer can be helpful to increase your chances.

3. How long does a procedure at the Rent Committee 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 a decision of the Rent Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can submit the case to the court if you disagree with the decision.

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