Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rental Committee. This independent organization helps to resolve disputes about rent prices, service costs, maintenance, and other rental matters. However, many tenants and landlords do not exactly know what the Rental Committee does, how a procedure goes, 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 deals with disputes between tenants and landlords. Think about:

• Being charged too high a rent at the start of a lease agreement

• Disagreements about annual rent increases

• Disagreements about service costs

• Complaints about lack of maintenance

• Debates about the amount of the deposit

Decisions of the Rental Committee are binding, unless one of the parties goes to court within eight weeks.

Official website: huurcommissie.nl

When can you go to the Rental Committee?

You can start a procedure at the Rental Committee if you and your landlord (or tenant) cannot come to an agreement. The most common situations are:

1. Rent price check – Are you in doubt whether the rent is too high? The Rental Committee can test this against the legal rules.

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

3. Service charges – For instance, in the case of ambiguity about cleaning or energy costs.

4. Maintenance defects – Such as mold, leaks, or faulty facilities.

5. Refund of deposit – In case of a dispute after the rent period has ended.

How does a procedure at the Rental Committee work?

A procedure proceeds in different steps:

1. Filing a petition

The tenant or landlord submits a petition. This can easily be done via the Rental Committee’s website.

2. Paying for legal fees

A small fee (leges) must be paid. If you win, the costs are usually refunded.

3. Processing the case

The Rental Committee reviews the documents and may organize a hearing. Sometimes the house itself is visited as well.

4. Judgment

The Rental Committee makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant disagrees, the case can be brought before the court.

What are the benefits of the Rental Committee?

• Accessible: You don’t need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

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

• Quick: Procedures typically take a few months, shorter than many court procedures.

Difference between the Rental Committee and the judge

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

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

• Judge: necessary if you also want to involve other legal matters, like annulment of the rental contract or compensation for damage.

Sometimes it’s wise to try the Rental Committee first, because it’s less expensive and delivers faster results.

Frequently asked questions about the Rental Committee

1. How much does a procedure at the Rental Committee cost?
The leges usually vary between €25 and €450, depending on the case type and whether you are a tenant or landlord.

2. Do I need a lawyer for the Rental Committee?
No, the procedures are designed so that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, hiring a lawyer might be practical to increase your chances.

3. How long does a procedure at the Rental Committee take?
A procedure typically takes a few months on average. This depends on the complexity of the case and the committee’s availability.

4. Can I appeal a decision of the Rental Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can bring the case to court if you disagree with the decision.

5. Can I also go to the Rental Committee for commercial lease contracts (such as commercial space)?
No, the Rental Committee only deals with residential units, not commercial space.