Housing minister Hugo de Jonge has published more details about his plans to extend rent controls to more housing, which includes plans to fine landlords who break the rules.

Currently rent controls apply to all homes valued at less than 142 points, based on amenities, size and the property value. De Jonge now aims to expand that to 187 points, while modernising the points system at the same time. In the current system, 187 points is equivalent to a rent of around €1,000 a month.

‘The enormous shortage in rental homes means that huge rents are being charged for properties that are just not worth it,’ De Jonge said on Friday. ‘By regulating mid-market rentals, we can protect tenants against excessive rents and ensure people pay a fair price.’

Once the new system is introduced in January 2024, some 90% of Dutch housing stock will be covered by rent controls. The new rules will only apply to new contracts from that date and the cabinet estimates some 150,000 properties will then be cheaper than they are now.

The main changes in the system include adding points for all outside spaces, not just larger balconies or gardens, and for energy efficiency. The higher the energy label, the more points the property will qualify for.

The minister says that once the new rules are up and running, property worth 187 points will carry a maximum rent of around €1,100.