Rent Price Liberalisation Threshold: what does this mean?
The rent price liberalisation threshold is a threshold value in Dutch tenancy law that determines whether a property falls under rent price regulation or whether the rent price can be freely determined. In Delft and the Hague region, this threshold has a direct impact on thousands of tenants. From 2021, this threshold has been increased, causing more properties to fall into the private sector. Discover how this rule works and what it means for your rent price in Delft.
What is the rent price liberalisation threshold?
The rent price liberalisation threshold is a statutory threshold value that indicates whether a property is considered a social housing property or private sector. When the rent price is below this threshold, specific rules apply such as the points system (see our article on the points system), maximum rent increases and protection against unreasonable increases. In Delft, we see that many medium-sized properties fall just above this threshold, causing them to suddenly become private sector.
Statutory basis
The rules regarding the rent price liberalisation threshold are laid down in:
- Rent Allowance Act (article 1, paragraph 2, sub a): determines the threshold values for social rent.
- Maximum Rent Increase Act: regulates how much the rent may increase for social housing properties.
- Housing Act: defines the categories of rental properties (social rent, other rent, private sector).
Current threshold values (2024) - Delft
The current liberalisation threshold for Delft is:
- € 808.06 per month for an independent living space.
- € 879.66 per month for an independent dwelling (standard dwelling, 2 bedrooms).
Important for Delft: Many rental properties on Binnenhoflaan, Phoenixstraat and Delftse Hout fall just above this threshold, allowing landlords to freely determine the rent price. Check your situation at the Juridisch Loket Delft (Burg. van Karnebeeklaan 10).
How is the threshold determined?
The rent price liberalisation threshold is adjusted annually by the Statistics Netherlands (CBS) and the government. For Delft, the following applies:
- The rent price index specific to the Hague region.
- Local market pressure due to student housing and expat demand.
Difference social rent vs private sector - Delft practical situation
| Social rent (under €879.66) | Private sector (above €879.66) |
|---|---|
| Rent price regulated via points system. | Market-conform rent price (Delft: €1,200-€1,800 for 2-room). |
| Max. rent increase 4.1% (2024). | Free negotiation upon contract extension. |
| Full rent allowance possible. | Limited rent allowance (max. €400/month). |
| Protection via District Court of The Hague. | Only general tenancy protection. |
| Check via Juridisch Loket Delft. | Negotiate yourself or engage a lawyer. |
What does this mean concretely for Delft tenants?
In Delft, your rights depend on:
- Your exact rent price: use the Huurcommissie calculator for your property.
- Property location: properties near TU Delft more often fall into the private sector.
- Contract date: contracts concluded before 2021 often still have old rules.
Practical Delft examples
Example 1: Tanthof Oost
You rent a 2-room dwelling for €850/month. Falls under social rent. Entitled to max. 4.1% increase and rent allowance.
Example 2: Binnenwatersloot
Same dwelling but €950/month. Private sector! Landlord may increase by 10-15% for new tenant.
Action for Delft tenants: Make an appointment at Juridisch Loket Delft (015-2562680) or submit a rent price check with Huurcommissie.
Specific for Delft students
Student dwellings have a lower threshold (€808.06). Note: room rental often falls under other rules. Check with Juridisch Loket Delft.