1. Rent Price Cap

• The Act introduces a cap on the maximum rent that landlords can charge. This cap is linked to the property’s location, size, and quality. The aim is to prevent landlords from setting rents that are disproportionately high compared to the property’s value.

2. Annual Rent Increases

• The Act also limits the rate at which landlords can increase rent each year. This is designed to protect tenants from sudden and steep rent hikes, providing more stability and predictability in rental costs.

3. Protections Against Excessive Rent

• If you currently pay a rent that exceeds the new legal limits, you may be entitled to a rent reduction. The Act provides mechanisms for tenants to challenge their rent and seek adjustments if it is deemed too high under the new rules.

4. Regulation of New Tenancies

• For new rental agreements signed after 1 July 2024, landlords must adhere to the new rent caps from the outset. This ensures that new tenants are not charged excessively from the beginning of their tenancy.

Applicable to All Self-Contained Residences and Rooms

• The legislation applies not only to self-contained residences but also to rented rooms, meaning that all types of rental housing are covered under the new rules.

6. Dispute Resolution

• The Act strengthens tenants’ rights by providing clearer processes for resolving disputes over rent prices. Tenants can seek intervention from the Rent Tribunal (Huurcommissie) if they believe their rent is too high.

What Should You Do?

• Review your current rental agreement and rent price to determine if it aligns with the new legislation.
• If your rent exceeds the new legal limits, consider contacting your landlord to negotiate a reduction or seek assistance from the Rent Tribunal.
• For new tenancies, ensure that the rent being charged is within the allowable limits set by the Affordable Rent Act.

The Affordable Rent Act is an important step towards ensuring that housing in the Netherlands is affordable for everyone. It empowers tenants by giving them more control over rent prices and offering protection against excessive charges.