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, service costs, maintenance and other rental issues. 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 handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Think of:

• Too high a rent at the start of a lease

• Disputes about annual rent increases

• Disagreement about service costs

• Complaints about overdue maintenance

• Discussions about the amount of the deposit

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

👉 Official website: rentalcommittee.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) do not come out together. The most common situations are:

1. Rent price check – Are you unsure 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 costs – For example, in case of unclear costs for cleaning or energy.

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

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

How does a procedure at the Rental Committee work?

A procedure proceeds in different steps:

1. Submission of a request

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

2. Payment of fees

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

3. Handling of the case

The Rental Committee looks at the documents and can organize a hearing. Sometimes the house itself is also visited.

4. Judgement

The Rental Committee makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant do not agree with it, can the case still be submitted to the court.

What are the benefits of the Rental Committee?

• 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.

• Fast: Procedures usually last a few months, shorter than many court procedures.

Difference between Rental Committee and judge

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

• Rental Committee: suitable for rental disputes about price, service costs or maintenance. The procedure is accessible and cheaper.

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

Sometimes it makes sense to try the Rental Committee first, as this is less costly and gives quicker results.

Frequently asked questions about the Rental Committee

1. How much does a procedure at the Rental Committee 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 Rental Committee?
No, the procedures are designed in such a way that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, it can be useful to engage a lawyer to increase your chances.

3. How long does a procedure at the Rental Committee take?
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 a decision of the Rental Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can bring the case to court if you do not agree with the decision.

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