Bare rent vs. total rent in housing allowance calculation Rotterdam
When applying for **housing allowance** in Rotterdam, the **rent** is decisive. The **bare rent** (excluding service charges) differs from the **total rent** (including everything). This often leads to discussions. The **Social Insurance Bank (SVB)** applies strict rules, but local authorities such as the Rotterdam District Court (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) and the Rotterdam Legal Aid Office (Westblaak 180) can assist with objections. We explain the difference, the calculation, and actions in case of errors.
Difference between bare rent and total rent?
Bare rent: The base rate for the accommodation itself, without utilities, service or administration costs. Stated purely as 'rent' in your contract.
Total rent: Everything included – service charges, gas, water, electricity, sometimes internet. Also called 'gross rent'.
In Rotterdam rental contracts (often housing association properties), usually the bare rent applies for the allowance, but check your contract. Exceptions for integrated costs.
Legal basis and Rotterdam context
Based on the Work and Assistance Act (Wwb) and SVB rules. Important for Rotterdam:
- **Bare rent** prevails, except if the contract integrates service charges.
- 2023 rent threshold: € 741.66 (1-person). Above this? Lower or no allowance.
- Locally: Rotterdam housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia often specify this separately.
See SVB guidelines: SVB housing allowance calculation.
Examples from Rotterdam practice
Rotterdam tenants often encounter this. Two cases:
Example 1: Standard housing association rent
Situation: Apartment in Rotterdam-South, € 750/month bare rent. Service charges € 150 extra (gas/water).
Bare: € 750 | Total: € 900
Allowance: SVB calculates with € 750. Above threshold, so limited. Objection via Rotterdam District Court possible.
Example 2: Integrated rent
Situation: Private sector Feijenoord, contract € 850 including service charges.
Bare/Total: € 850
Allowance: Full amount counts. Check with Rotterdam Legal Aid Office (Westblaak 180).
What if your allowance is too low? Steps in Rotterdam
1. Check contract and SVB calculation.
2. Objection to SVB within 6 weeks.
3. Assistance: Rotterdam Legal Aid Office, Westblaak 180 (free advice).
4. Escalate: Rotterdam District Court, Wilhelminaplein 100-125.
Tip: Always keep your tenancy agreement and settlements. In Rotterdam, housing associations often assist with allowance applications.