As a housing landlord, it's a good chance you've heard of the Rent Commission. But what exactly does the Rent Commission do? We explain it to you in this article. Do you have questions, are things unclear or would you like to discuss something? Please feel free to contact us.

The Rent Commission is a national organization to prevent, help resolve and formally settle disputes between tenants and landlords. By providing information, the Rent Commission focuses on the prevention of disputes. If the tenant and the landlord are unable to come to a mutual agreement, the Rent Commission offers help with information. If that does not provide a solution, then the Rent Commission can make a decision that is binding on the parties by assessing the rent dispute in the light of the laws and regulations.

Most landlords in the Netherlands know the Rent Commission mainly from the point count. This is a checklist that shows how many points your rental property is worth. Does your property have 145 points? Then the maximum rent is now set at €737,14. Does your property have more than 145 points? Then the property is in the free sector and you may determine the rent yourself. Every year the checklist is updated by the government.

Wondering how many points your property will be determined on? You can do a rent check online through the Rent Commission's website.

When tenant and landlord disagree about defects in the property, they can also appeal to the Rent Commission. As a landlord, in most cases you are responsible for major maintenance of the property. Minor repairs are the responsibility of the tenant. In some cases, a landlord also decides to make minor repairs that are actually for the tenant. The cost of these may then be passed on in the service charge. One of the main reasons landlords pick up minor repairs themselves is to ensure quality.

In the event that serious defects are found in the property that are the landlord's responsibility, the Rent Commission can enforce a temporary rent reduction. This rent reduction then applies until the landlord fixes the defect.

The landlord may propose a rent increase when amenities have been installed or improved to enhance the tenant's enjoyment of life. Examples include an extra toilet, double glazing or a new central heating system. If the tenant and landlord cannot agree on a rent increase after home improvements, the Rent Commission can be brought in. It is important to know that replacing existing facilities will not be seen as housing improvement.