Consequences of Exceeding the Rent Liberalisation Threshold in Delft

When the rent in Delft exceeds the liberalisation threshold, the dwelling shifts to the free sector. This has direct consequences for tenants and landlords in this student city. Tenants lose access to the points system and maximum rent increase percentages, which weighs extra heavily due to the high demand for rooms around TU Delft. Landlords may freely determine and adjust the rent, often aligned with market-conformant rates in neighbourhoods such as Poptahof or the city centre. The 'sitting tenant' clause remains important: existing tenants sometimes retain regulation upon renegotiation. In addition, the statutory termination protection partly lapses, allowing landlords to terminate more easily for own use, renovation or due to pressure on the Delft housing market. From a fiscal perspective, the dwelling no longer qualifies as social housing, impacting subsidies, rent allowance and tax deductions – crucial for young professionals and students. Tenants can object via the Rent Tribunal if the price is not market-conformant, particularly relevant with rising rents in Delft. In 2024, the threshold amounts to €808.06 for independent living spaces, excluding service costs such as in furnished student rooms. Landlords must document the price assessment to prevent disputes, taking into account local regulations of the municipality of Delft. This system encourages the transition to free sector dwellings, but increases living costs in streets such as Rotterdamseweg. Always consult the current legislation via Rijksoverheid.nl or the municipality of Delft for specific cases. (248 words)