Rent Adjustment After Improvements: Rules and Objection

If the landlord makes improvements, such as installing a new kitchen, the rent may often be increased. But what rules apply, and how can you object? This article explains the legal frameworks.

What are improvements?

Improvements are structural modifications that increase the value of the property, distinct from maintenance (Article 7:243 of the Dutch Civil Code). For social housing, the Rent Assessment Committee (Huurcommissie) must approve the modification.

Procedure for rent increase

The landlord must inform you at least two months before the effective date. You can object within six weeks to the Rent Assessment Committee or the court. For the liberalised sector, a reasonableness test applies under Article 7:253 of the Dutch Civil Code.

Tenant rights

If you refuse to agree, the court can assess the increase for fairness. The costs of improvements may not be fully passed on to the tenant. Examples: insulation or lift installation often justify a moderate increase. Document everything for a strong objection.