Income-dependent rent increase: rules and explanation in The Hague
An **income-dependent rent increase** adjusts the rent based on income developments, with protection for lower incomes. Established since 2015 in the Rent Increase Decree. In The Hague, for disputes you can go to the District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60 or the Legal Aid Office The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10 for free advice.
What does income-dependent rent increase entail?
The landlord may only increase the rent if your household income (household rental income) has increased. This applies to private sector and subsidized rental properties in The Hague, not for social housing via housing associations or owner-occupied homes.
The limit follows the Rent Income Index from the CBS, which measures average income growth. Landlords may not exceed your personal increase or the index.
Legal basis and local application
Key legislation:
- Article 7:209a DCC: Maximum permitted increase private sector.
- Rent Increase Decree 2023: Exact formulas and deadlines.
- CBS Rent Income Index: Basis for calculation.
Note in The Hague: No application for social housing, long-term contracts (>10 years) or temporary rentals such as student rooms. In case of problems: District Court of The Hague (Prins Clauslaan 60) or Legal Aid Office (Lutherse Burgwal 10).
Step-by-step rent increase calculation
Three key factors determine the maximum:
- Rent Income Index: E.g. 3.5% in 2024 (check CBS).
- Your income growth: Limit is the minimum of the index or your own increase.
- Statutory cap: Max 100% of index, unless your own income has risen higher.
Example table for The Hague:
| Situation | Current rent | Index 2024 | Income increase | Max increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Income +2% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 2% | €24 (2%) |
| Income +5% | €1,200 | 3.5% | 5% | €60 (5%) |
| Income unchanged | €1,200 | 3.5% | 0% | No increase |
Tip The Hague: Request income data from the landlord. In case of disagreement: start procedure at District Court of The Hague, Prins Clauslaan 60. First advice via Legal Aid Office The Hague, Lutherse Burgwal 10.