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. Many tenants and landlords, however, do not know exactly what the Rent 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 Rent Committee?

The Rent Committee is a national, independent body that handles disputes between tenants and landlords. Think of:

• An excessively high rent at the start of a lease

• Discussions about annual rent increases

• Disagreements about service charges

• Complaints about overdue maintenance

• Discussions about the amount of the deposit

The decisions of the Rent Committee are binding, unless a party 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) do not get out on your own. The most common situations are:

1. Rent check – Are you doubting whether the rent price is too high? The Rent Committee can test this against statutory rules.

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

3. Service charges – For example, in the case of unclear costs for cleaning or energy.

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

5. Deposit refund – In case of a dispute at the end of the rental period.

How does a procedure at the Rent Committee work?

A procedure proceeds in different steps:

1. Submission of a request

The tenant or landlord files a petition. This can be done easily through the Rent Committee’s website.

2. Payment of fees

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

3. Treatment of the case

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

4. Verdict

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

What are the benefits of the Rent Committee?

• Accessible: You do not need a lawyer.

• Affordable: The costs are relatively low.

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

• Fast: Procedures usually take a few months, shorter than many legal procedures.

Difference between Rent Committee and judge

Many people ask themselves: 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 dissolution of the lease or compensation.

Sometimes it is wise to try the Rent Committee first, because this is less costly and provides faster results.

Frequently asked questions about the Rent Committee

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

3. How long does a procedure at the Rent Committee take?
A procedure usually lasts a few months on average. 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,cYou can submit the case to the judge within eight weeks if you disagree with the decision.

5. Can I also approach the Rent Committee for commercial leases (such as business space)?
No, the Rent Committee only handles residential space, not business space.