Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Commission. This independent organization helps to resolve disputes about rents, service charges, maintenance and other rental issues. However, many tenants and landlords do not exactly know what the Rent Commission does, how a procedure works, and what you can expect from them. In this article we explain it step by step.

What is the Rent Commission?

The Rent Commission is a national, independent institution that deals with disputes between tenants and landlords. Think about:

• A too high rent 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 findings of the Rent Commission are binding, unless one of the parties goes to court within eight weeks.

👉 Official website: rentcommission.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 figure it out together. The most common situations are:

1. Rent check – Are you wondering if 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 charges – For example, if there is uncertainty about costs for cleaning or energy.

4. Maintenance defects – Consider 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 Rent Commission work?

A procedure proceeds in different steps:

1. Submitting a request

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

2. Paying fees

A small fee (fees) must be paid. If you are proven right, these costs are usually refunded.

3. Handling the case

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

4. Pronouncement

The Rent Commission makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant disagree, can the case still be submitted to the court.

What are the benefits of the Rent Commission?

• Accessible: You don’t need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

• Independent: The commission is neutral and makes fair decisions based on the law.

• Quick: Procedures usually last a few months, shorter than many legal procedures.

Difference between Rent Commission and court

Many people wonder: should I go to the Rent Commission or to court?

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

• Judge: necessary if you also want to take up other legal matters, such as termination of the rental agreement or compensation for damage.

Sometimes it is smart to first try the Rent Commission because it is less costly and produces 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 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 Rent Commission last?
On average, a procedure lasts 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 Commission?
Yes, within eight weeks you can present the case to the court if you do not agree with the decision.

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