Deadlines and Time Limits for Service Charge Settlements in Rotterdam

In Rotterdam, landlords must send the service charge settlement within a reasonable period after the end of the service year, usually within six months. Extension requires proper justification, otherwise the right to settlement lapses. As a tenant in neighbourhoods such as Delfshaven or Kralingen, you have three months after receipt to submit comments. Advance payments remain advance payments and do not count as final settlement without detailed specification. In case of late settlement, in Rotterdam you may offset the advance payments against the rent. The Supreme Court recently ruled that a 'reasonable period' depends on the circumstances, but rarely longer than one year, which is particularly relevant given the strict rent controls by the Rotterdam municipality. Always keep proof of payments, especially with housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia. Does the landlord exceed the deadline? Then contact the Rent Tribunal, which in Rotterdam handles cases quickly for tenants in the city. Exceeding the time limit causes prescription of claims, and recalculation after two years is prohibited. This protects Rotterdam tenants against prolonged uncertainty in a tight housing market. Local tip: note the dates of advance payments and demand an annual overview via the Rotterdam Tenants' Line. Knowledge of these time limits prevents disputes with landlords in the port city and financial surprises. These rules promote fair settlements for all Rotterdammers. (212 words)