Just 469 people who signed a rental contract in the non-rent controlled sector last year challenged the amount they were paying, according to research by television consumers show Pointer. 

In total, an estimated 100,000 new tenancy deals were signed in the non-rent controlled sector in 2023.

Of those who complained to a rent tribunal, 313 won their cases, resulting in a reduction in rent averaging €433 per month. This was because their home did not qualify for enough points to be classified as a “free sector” property and should have fallen under rent controls instead.

Points are awarded based on square metres, heating, outside space, the value of the property and luxury fixtures and fittings. Homes worth up to 142 points have a maximum rent of just under €890 and are subject to rent controls. For all other properties, landlords can currently charge what they like. 

Small flats in particular were most likely to be subject to rent controls because they were worth fewer than 142 points. Shared apartments with more than two adults always fall under the point-based system as well. 

People who are tenants in the “private” sector have six months to appeal against the rent they have agreed to pay.

• Do a quick check.
  

Pointer discovered that many people were unaware of the option to challenge the rent and others said they did not want a conflict with their landlord, given the shortage of rental housing.

The government is planning to extend rent controls to cover properties worth up to €1,100 in the points system and MPs will debate the move later this month. 

The changes should benefit international workers, particularly in the bigger cities, where landlords often charge high rents for tiny houses although the new rules will only apply to new tenancies.

There is also increasing evidence that landlords in the bigger cities are selling off their smaller properties to avoid them becoming part of the rent-controlled sector. 

Have you challenged your rent or are you thinking about it? We’d like to hear from you for a story. Email editor@dutchnews.nl.