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Basic Rent vs. Total Rent in Rent Allowance Calculation

In Delft, it is crucial to know whether your **basic rent** or **total rent** counts for **rent allowance**. Discover the difference, calculation rules, and steps via **District Court of The Hague** or **Legal Desk Delft** if your allowance is too low.

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Basic Rent vs. Total Rent in Rent Allowance Calculation

When applying for or calculating **rent allowance** in Delft, the **rent price** is decisive. The **basic rent** (excluding service charges) and **total rent** (including service charges) often lead to confusion. The **Social Insurance Bank (SVB)** decides based on your tenancy agreement. In this article for residents of Delft: the difference, calculation methods, and actions in case of incorrect allowance, with reference to **District Court of The Hague** (district) and **Legal Desk Delft**.

Difference between basic rent and total rent?

Basic rent: The base rent amount for the accommodation itself, without service charges, utilities (gas, water, electricity) or other extras. This is listed purely as 'rent' in your contract.

Total rent: Everything included, such as service charges, advances for energy, and mandatory contributions under the agreement – also known as **gross rent**.

Usually, the **SVB** uses the basic rent for allowance in Delft, but check your contract for exceptions.

Legal basis: which price counts?

Regulated in the Work and Assistance Act (Wwb) and General Act on Special Assistance (Awb). The **SVB** implements it; see SVB.nl.

SVB rules for Delft:

  • **Basic rent** applies as standard, unless the contract integrates service charges.
  • In case of integration: **total rent** counts.
  • 2023 rent threshold: € 741.66 (single-person household) for basic rent. Above threshold? Reduced or no allowance.

Details: SVB guidelines.

Practical examples for Delft

Two examples fitting the Delft rental market.

Example 1: Standard basic rent

Situation: Apartment in Delft for € 800/month, only rent price in contract (no extras).

Basic: € 800 | Total: € 800

Allowance: SVB takes € 800. Above € 741.66? Possibly reduced. Check income.

Example 2: With service charges

Situation: € 700 basic rent + € 150 service charges (in contract as one amount).

Basic: € 700 | Total: € 850

Allowance: Total € 850 may apply if the contract states so. Below threshold: full allowance possible.

What if your allowance in Delft is too low?

Check contract and SVB calculation. Objection? Within 6 weeks to SVB. No solution? To **District Court of The Hague** (district Delft). Free advice: **Legal Desk Delft** (Phoenixstraat 46, 2611 AK Delft; tel. 0900-8020 or online).

Tip for Delft: Tenants' Union Delft offers local support; check delft.nl for current thresholds.