Rent Price Points System in The Hague: how it works
The **rent price points system** establishes the maximum rent price for social housing in The Hague. This protects tenants against excessive rents, while allowing housing associations to cover costs. Points are awarded based on living space size, location in The Hague, energy provisions, and more. In this article: operation, rights, local rules, and action if in doubt.
What does the points system in The Hague entail?
This **statutory system** from the **Maximum Rent Act** and the **General Municipal By-law of The Hague** calculates the maximum rent via points for characteristics such as:
- Surface area (m² and rooms)
- Location (city center The Hague, Schilderswijk, etc.)
- Building quality (new build or renovated)
- Facilities (central heating, double glazing, parking)
- Housing type (apartment, single-family home)
Total points × point value (e.g. €12-€13 in The Hague) = maximum rent. This keeps rents fair within the region.
Statutory basis in The Hague
Regulated via:
- **Maximum Rent Act (Wmh)**: national maximum for housing associations.
- **APV The Hague**: local points table and rates, consult municipal website.
Rent allowance depends on this maximum rent.
Example points calculation The Hague
For a **3-room apartment** in the **city center The Hague** with central heating and elevator:
| Characteristic | Points | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 3 rooms (65 m²) | 42 | Standard apartment |
| Location (city center) | 32 | Center The Hague |
| Central heating + insulation | 12 | Energy-efficient |
| Elevator present | 14 | Accessibility |
| Total | 100 | - |
At €12.80 per point (The Hague rate 2023): 100 × €12.80 = €1,280 p/m (excl. service charges).
Your rights and obligations in The Hague
Tenants in The Hague have specific rights.
Rights as tenant
- Transparent calculation: Housing association must provide points specification. Request it!
- Rent reduction: If exceeding maximum, via Rent Tribunal.
- Verification: Compare with Rent Tribunal tool.
Obligations
- Payment on time.
- Report corrections for changes.
What if the rent is too high in The Hague?
1. Request points sheet from housing association. 2. Check via Rent Tribunal. 3. File complaint with Rent Tribunal (free). 4. In case of dispute: District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60.
Free assistance in The Hague
- Legal Counter The Hague: Lutherse Burgwal 10, tel. 0900-8020. Free advice.
- District Court of The Hague: Prins Clauslaan 60, for proceedings.
- Rent Team The Hague: Local support.
Sources: Maximum Rent Act, APV The Hague (2023), Rent Tribunal. Always consult current rates.