Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? In that case, you can often go to the Rental Committee. This independent organization helps in resolving disputes about rental prices, service costs, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords do not know exactly what the Rental Committee does, how a procedure works and what you can expect from them. In this article we explain it step by step.
What is the Rental Committee?
The Rental Committee is a national, independent body that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Consider for example:
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An too high rental price at the start of a rental agreement
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Discussions about annual rent increases
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Disagreement about service costs
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Complaints about overdue maintenance
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Discussions about the amount of the deposit
The decisions of the Rental Committee are binding, unless one of the parties go to court within eight weeks.
👉 Official website: huurcommissie.nl
When can you go to the Rental Committee?
You can start a procedure with the Rental Committee if you and your landlord (or tenant) can’t work it out together. The most common situations are:
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Rent price check – Are you doubting if the rent is too high? The Rental Committee can verify this based on the legal rules.
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Rent increase – If you do not agree with a proposed rent increase.
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Service costs – For instance, in case of an ambiguity about cleaning or energy costs.
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Maintenance defects – Think about mold, leaks or broken amenities.
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Repayment of deposit – In a dispute after the end of the rental period.
How does a procedure at the Rental Committee work?
A procedure involves several steps:
1. Submission of a request
The tenant or landlord submits an application. This can be done easily on the Rental Committee’s website.
2. Payment of fees
A small fee (lees) has to be paid. If you are right, you usually get these costs back.
3. Handling of the case
The Rental Committee looks at the documents and can organize a hearing. Sometimes they also visit the property itself.
4. Verdict
The Rental Committee makes a binding verdict. Only if you or your tenant/landlord does not agree, the case can still be brought before court.
What are the benefits of the Rental Committee?
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Accessible: You don’t need a lawyer.
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Affordable: The costs are relatively low.
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Independent: The committee is neutral and makes fair decisions based on the law.
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Fast: Procedures usually last a few months, shorter than many court procedures.
Difference between Rental Committee and court
Many people wonder: should I go to the Rental Committee or to court?
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Rental Committee: suitable for rent disputes about price, service costs or maintenance. The procedure is straightforward and cheaper.
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Court: necessary if you want to take other legal issues into account, like termination of the rental contract or compensation for damages.
Sometimes it’s a good idea to first try the Rental Committee because it is less costly and yields faster results.
Frequently asked questions about the Rental Committee
1. How much does a procedure at the Rental Committee 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 Rental Committee?
No, the procedures are designed in such a way that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, hiring a lawyer may be useful to increase your chances.
3. How long does a procedure at the Rental Committee last?
On average, a procedure lasts a few months. This depends on the complexity of the case and the availability of the committee.
4. Can I appeal against a verdict from the Rental Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can bring the case before a judge if you disagree with the verdict.
5. Can I also go to the Rental Committee for commercial rental contracts (like business premises)?
No, the Rental Committee only handles living space, not business premises.
