Objection Procedure Against Rent Increase in the Regulated Sector in Delft

In Delft, where the rental market in the regulated sector is under pressure due to the proximity of TU Delft and a shortage of affordable housing, you can object to a rent increase if it does not comply with legal regulations. The landlord must announce the increase in writing, providing a clear statement of the amount, the effective date, and the grounds, often through Delft housing corporations such as Vestia or Pré Wonen. You have two months from receipt to file an objection via registered letter. In your objection, state why the increase is unjustified, such as exceeding the maximum percentage, missing inflation correction, or deviation from local agreements in the Delft Rent Agreement. The Rent Assessment Committee (Huurcommissie) will handle your objection independently and may suspend or moderate the increase, taking into account the specific Delft housing market. For social housing in Delft, a maximum increase of 2.3% applies for 2024, excluding service costs. Supporting documents such as the rental contract, the announcement of the increase, and, if applicable, WOZ values for Delft neighborhoods are essential. If the landlord does not respond within the set period, you can directly approach the Rent Assessment Committee via their regional office in The Hague, which serves Delft effectively. If successful, you will not have to pay the increase retroactively, and you will maintain control over your housing costs in this student city. The costs for the procedure are low, often €25. If you do not win, you can appeal to the subdistrict court at the District Court of The Hague, Delft branch. This way, you protect yourself against excesses in the Delft rental market. Always consult the current ministerial regulations and the website of the Municipality of Delft for exact percentages and local guidelines.