What is the rent ceiling for social housing in The Hague?
The rent ceiling for social housing in The Hague is the maximum amount you may pay for a rental property under the Housing Allowance Act and Maximum Rent Act. This ceiling determines whether a property qualifies as a social rental dwelling and whether you are eligible for housing allowance. In 2024, there is a national standard, but The Hague applies specific ceilings. Exceeding it may lead to loss of allowance or a crooked dwelling.
What is a social rental dwelling in The Hague?
A social rental dwelling complies with the Maximum Rent Act (Wmh) and may not exceed the rent ceiling of the municipality of The Hague. These dwellings are usually rented out by housing associations such as Haagwonen or Vestia.
The ceiling ensures affordable housing for people with a modal income. Above this limit, a crooked dwelling arises (see: Crooked Living - What Is It?).
Legal basis
- Maximum Rent Act (Wmh): Limits rent prices in the social sector.
- Housing Allowance Act: Income and rent price determine your entitlement to allowance.
- Maximum Rent Decree (Bmh): Specific ceilings per municipality such as The Hague.
How is the rent ceiling in The Hague determined?
Annually, the government sets the ceilings, aligned with:
- The average rent in The Hague.
- Property type (studio, apartment or family home).
- District (e.g. city centre vs. Escamp).
In 2024, the rent ceiling in The Hague amounts to approximately €808.06 for a dwelling of 70 m² (depending on WOZ value and points). Check current rates with the Municipality of The Hague or Central Government.
Consequences if the rent in The Hague exceeds the ceiling
Rent above the social rent ceiling in The Hague has direct impact:
1. Loss of housing allowance
Only if the rent is below the ceiling are you eligible for housing allowance. Above that, no allowance, which weighs heavily on low incomes.
2. Crooked living in The Hague
Your dwelling no longer falls within the social sector, but you live 'crooked'. Causes:
- Excessively high rent by landlord.
- Increase after start of rental period.
- Private sector bordering on it.
Demand rent correction via the Rent Tribunal or look for a new social dwelling. More: Crooked Living - What Is It?.
3. Less protection from the Rent Tribunal
Above the ceiling, no Rent Tribunal supervision. Landlords may freely increase rent within the Rent Increase Act.
Your rights and obligations as a tenant in The Hague
Regulated in the Housing Allowance Act and Wmh. Specific to The Hague:
Rights
- Affordable rent: Maximum the ceiling, unless you agree to more.
- Housing allowance: If qualified and low income.
- Rent Tribunal: Review of rent price and increases.
Obligations
- Report income to housing association (income-dependent rent increase).
- Pay rent on time.
- Keep dwelling neat.
Help in The Hague
- District Court The Hague: Prins Clauslaan 60, for rent disputes.
- Legal Counter The Hague: Lutherse Burgwal 10, free advice.
- Rent Team The Hague: Support for excessively high rent.
Take action
Check your rent with the Rent Tribunal. In case of problems: contact the Legal Counter or Homeowners' Association.