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Exceeding the WWS Maximum in Rotterdam: What Now?

Rent increase higher than the WWS maximum in Rotterdam? Discover how to challenge it via Rechtbank Rotterdam or Juridisch Loket. Step-by-step guide and local addresses.

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Exceeding the WWS Maximum: What Now?

If your rent increase exceeds the WWS maximum (Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act), you can challenge it legally in Rotterdam. The WWS maximum is the legally established limit on how much your rent may be increased per year. If your landlord exceeds this limit, the increase may be unlawful. This article explains what the WWS maximum is, how to check if your rent increase complies with it, and what you can do if it is exceeded, including local institutions in Rotterdam.

What is the WWS Maximum?

The WWS maximum is the maximum annual rent increase that a landlord may implement under the Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS). This act regulates, among other things, rent price development throughout the Netherlands, including Rotterdam. The WWS maximum protects tenants against excessively high increases.

The percentage is set annually by the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) and depends on the rent allowance norm and rent index. For 2024, the WWS maximum is 3.4% for private sector dwellings (not under the Rent Tribunal). Social housing dwellings often have stricter limits.

Important for Rotterdam: The WWS maximum mainly applies to private sector rental dwellings. For social housing (often housing associations), you can go to the Rent Tribunal.

Legal Basis

Key laws:

  • Article 7:900 Dutch Civil Code (DCC): General rules for rent increases.
  • Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS): Maximum percentage for private sector.
  • Housing Valuation Decree (HVD): Exact percentages and conditions.

For social housing, the Rent Tribunal plays a role. In the private sector, you can request a rent assessment from the Rent Tribunal to test reasonableness.

How Does the WWS Maximum Work in Practice?

The maximum applies to the regular annual increase. Exceptions are possible for improvements to the dwelling or increased service charges.

Examples of WWS Maximum 2024

Current Rent WWS Maximum 2024 Maximum New Rent Proposed Increase Allowed?
€1,200 3.4% €1,240.80 €1,300 No (too high)
€900 3.4% €930.60 €930 Yes
€1,500 3.4% €1,551 €1,580 No

Tip: In case of exceedance, you can take action via local Rotterdam institutions.

What to Do in Case of Exceedance in Rotterdam?

Follow these steps:

  1. Check the increase: Request written substantiation, including the rent index.
  2. Seek help: Contact the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 for free advice.
  3. Send a formal letter: Object to your landlord and demand adjustment within the WWS maximum.
  4. Go to court: If no solution, proceed via the Rechtbank Rotterdam, Wilhelminaplein 100-125. You can litigate with rent arrears of less than 1 month.
  5. Rent Tribunal: For private sector, request a rent assessment (if rent below liberalisation threshold).

Rotterdam-specific: In the Rotterdam region, there are many private sector contracts. Check with the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam or Rechtbank Rotterdam for an appointment.

Deadline: You have 6 months after the increase date to litigate (Article 7:932 DCC).

Local Contacts Rotterdam

  • Juridisch Loket Rotterdam: Westblaak 180, 3011 KM Rotterdam. Tel: 0800-8020.
  • Rechtbank Rotterdam: Wilhelminaplein 100-125, 3016 GK Rotterdam. Canton sector.
  • Rent Team Rotterdam: Via Woonbond or local tenants' organisations.