Do you have a conflict with your landlord or tenant? Then you can often go to the Rent Committee. 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 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 agency that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Think about:

• An excessive rent at the start of a lease

• Disputes about annual rent increases

• Disagreement about service charges

• Complaints about overdue maintenance

• Disputes about the amount of the deposit

The rulings 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 with the Rent Committee if you and your landlord (or tenant) cannot resolve it together. The most common situations are:

1. Rent check – Do you doubt whether the rent is too high? The Rent Committee can test this against the statutory 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 – 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 Rent Committee work?

A procedure takes place 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 Committee.

2. Payment of fees

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

3. Handling the case

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

4. Decision

The Rent Committee makes a binding decision. Only if you or your landlord/tenant disagrees, can the case still be presented 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 committee is neutral and decides fairly based on the law.

• Quick: Procedures usually take a few months, shorter than many judicial procedures.

Difference between Rent Committee and court

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

• Rent Committee: Suitable for rental 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 lease or compensation.

Sometimes it is wise to first try the Rent Committee, as this 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 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 Rent Committee?
No, the procedures are designed so that you can submit your case without a lawyer. However, involving a lawyer can be convenient 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 committee.

4. Can I appeal against a decision of the Rent Committee?
Yes, within eight weeks you can present the case to the judge if you disagree with the decision.

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