Indexation of Service Costs versus WWS Maximum in Rotterdam: The Pitfalls

In Rotterdam, indexation of service costs may not fall below the WWS maximum, but landlords in neighbourhoods such as Delfshaven and Charlois often use it as a sneaky route. Article 7:892 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW) clearly separates the bare rent from service costs, which may be indexed annually based on the CPI (consumer price index). Nevertheless, Rotterdam landlords sometimes bundle this with rent increases, which is legally invalid according to the Huurcommissie Rotterdam-Rijnmond. Thoroughly check the specification: fixed costs such as lift maintenance in high-rise flats versus variable expenses such as cleaning in the Erasmus-laan neighbourhood. Only CPI adjustment is permitted, not the WWS percentage. Request annual accounts from housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia and compare with CBS inflation figures. In case of exceedance? Refute per item with evidence. The Rotterdam Huurcommissie tests service costs separately and intervenes in cases of abuse. Avoid the pitfall by invoicing bare rent and service costs separately, as required in the port city. In case of abuse: demand rent reduction via the local committee. Stay alert in this grey area, especially with the pressure on the Rotterdam housing market.