Exceeding the WWS Maximum: What Now?
If your rent increase in Utrecht exceeds the WWS maximum (Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act), you can challenge it legally. The WWS maximum is the legally established limit for the maximum annual rent increase. If your landlord exceeds this limit, the increase may be unlawful. In this article for tenants in Utrecht, we explain what the WWS maximum entails, how to check if your increase complies, and what steps you can take, including local institutions such as the District Court of Midden-Nederland and the Juridisch Loket Utrecht.
What is the WWS Maximum?
The WWS maximum forms the upper limit for annual rent increases under the Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS). This Act protects tenants throughout the Netherlands, including Utrecht, against excessive price increases. The maximum is published annually and depends on the rent allowance norm and rent index.
For 2024, the WWS maximum is 3.4% for private sector dwellings outside the regulation of the Rent Tribunal. In Utrecht, with its diverse rental market, social housing often has stricter housing association rules.
Important for Utrecht: This maximum primarily applies to the private sector. Social housing falls under the Rent Tribunal, but Utrecht tenants can also seek local support in case of exceedance.
Legal Basis
Core legislation:
- Article 7:900 CC: General rent increase rules.
- Housing Valuation and Subsidies Act (WWS): Maximum increase for private sector.
- Housing Valuation Decree: Specific percentages and conditions.
For social housing in Utrecht, the Rent Tribunal mediates. Private sector? Request a rent assessment or go to court.
How Does the WWS Maximum Work in Utrecht Practice?
Landlords may increase the rent annually by a maximum of the WWS percentage, except for improvements or justified costs. In Utrecht, with high rents, verification is crucial.
Examples WWS Maximum 2024
| Current Rent | WWS Maximum 2024 | Maximum New Rent | Proposed Increase | Allowed? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| €1,200 | 3.4% | €1,240.80 | €1,300 | No (exceeded) |
| €900 | 3.4% | €930.60 | €950 | Yes (within limit) |
| €1,500 | 3.4% | €1,551 | €1,600 | No (exceeded) |
Tip: In case of exceedance in Utrecht: act quickly.
Step-by-Step Plan in Case of Exceeding WWS Maximum in Utrecht
Follow these steps:
- Verify in writing: Ask your landlord for explanation, rent index, and substantiation.
- Seek assistance: Contact the Juridisch Loket Utrecht, Catharijnesingel 55 for free advice.
- Protest: Send a registered letter stating that you refuse the increase due to exceedance.
- Initiate legal proceedings: If unwilling, summons via the District Court of Midden-Nederland, Vrouwe Justitiaplein 1, Utrecht. The subdistrict sector handles rental disputes.
- Additional options: For private sector: rent price procedure. Social housing: Rent Tribunal.
Utrecht-specific: The District Court of Midden-Nederland is accessible for tenants. Keep all correspondence.
Current for 2024. Always consult the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) for the latest WWS figures.