Objecting to a rent increase: how to proceed
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An objection to the annual rent increase must reach the landlord in time. Therefore, immediately check the date in the proposal and the current deadline.
Detailed explanation, checklist and sources
Whether you can object depends, among other things, on your rental segment, the proposal, the effective date and the reason why you believe the increase is incorrect.
General information about Dutch law · Reviewed on · How we work
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First check your rental segment
Different rules apply to social housing, mid-market rental housing and the private sector. Therefore, review your contract, initial rent, points assessment and the information in the rent increase proposal before comparing percentages.
A percentage does not tell the whole story
For self-contained social housing, different maximums apply from 1 July 2026: normally 4.1% for basic rent of € 350 or more, or € 25 for lower rent. For higher incomes, € 50 or € 100 may apply subject to conditions. Check the basis and maximum rent according to the points system. An increase following home improvements follows a different route.
Reasons for objection
An objection may be possible, for example, if the increase is too high, takes effect too early, was announced incorrectly or relevant property details are incorrect. Additional rules may apply in the case of serious, recognised defects.
Write to the landlord and keep evidence
Explain in writing why you object and, if necessary, use the current model letter from the Rent Tribunal. In any event, continue paying the old rent. Depending on the situation, the landlord or tenant must then involve the Rent Tribunal in time.
Your checklist
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Tick what you have checked or collected. Note what is missing and take your overview to a meeting.
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Item 1 / 5 · Where do you stand with this item?
Rent increase proposal and date sent
This overview follows your own answers. It does not assess your rights or guarantee that your file is complete.
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View all details, notes and timeline
Your timeline and evidence
List events and contacts. Note where you keep the evidence; no upload is needed.
What goes in my timeline?
Record what happened, when, the response and where to find the letter, message or photo. Mark uncertain dates.
Is my evidence sent?
No. You only note where it is kept. No files are uploaded or sent automatically.
How do I save my timeline?
Your entries are not saved automatically. Choose Save and continue later to store this preparation, including your timeline, in My overview. Wait for confirmation and save new changes again. You can also download a Word file without an account.
Up to 20 events. Choose a different position for an event to change the order.
0 / 5 · Checked or collected
For each event, note the date, what happened and where the evidence is kept. Example: 3 October — letter received — correspondence folder.
Describe the solution you would like, such as an explanation of a deduction and repayment of the outstanding amount.
For example: which document is missing, who can provide it and what should I do first?
Record the date and its source. If unknown, note this and check promptly. This tool does not calculate or monitor deadlines.
After your conversation
These are your own notes. Confirm agreements with the other person; these notes do not prove their agreement.
This is your preparation, not a submitted request, objection or legally reviewed document. A tick records only your own progress. Check the procedure and deadline in the original letter.
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Clear entries
Download anything you want to keep first. Clearing cannot be undone.
- Rent increase proposal and date sent
- Current and proposed basic rent
- Tenancy agreement, points assessment and rental segment
- Your specific reason for objection with evidence
- Current model letter and deadline
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to pay the higher rent in advance?
If you object in time, it is generally advised to continue paying the old rent until it is clear whether the increase is valid. Do not pay less than your old rent.
Does the same objection apply in the private sector?
No. The procedure and assessment differ by rental segment. Therefore, first check whether your home falls under social housing, mid-market rental housing or the private sector.