Knowledge Centre
Find the meaning of various terms related to renting & letting here.
When renting a new home, there's more to consider than simply picking a property and moving in. Especially when you're searching for a rental for the first time, there are several things to keep in mind. If you're new to the world of renting, you'll likely come across terms you're not familiar with, such as delivery condition, rent protection, and the rent tribunal. These are terms you really should know when you're renting a place on your own, as it's likely you'll deal with one or more of these aspects.
Rent Tribunal
What does this involve?
You might be considering renting a new home, either to move into a larger space or perhaps downsize. Naturally, there are various aspects to consider. You may encounter things you weren't aware of, like the Rental Committee. As a potential tenant or landlord, it's useful to know more about this, as it's possible you might deal with it. Here, you can read more about what the Rental Committee exactly involves and how they can assist you.
What is the Rental Committee?
As a tenant, you sign the rental contract with the landlord of the property. You pay the rent and additional costs to the landlord. The landlord ensures you live in a well-maintained house and that major repairs are addressed. For instance, they're responsible for fixing significant issues within the house. There are numerous items detailed in a rental contract, potentially leading to disagreements between tenant and landlord. When this occurs, you might choose to involve the Rental Committee. The Rental Committee is an independent body appointed by the government. This organization mediates conflicts between tenants and landlords. Often, the Rental Committee is involved when either party disputes the rent, maintenance rules, or service charges. Tenants and landlords can also seek information about the rental contract from the Rental Committee. In case of a conflict, the Rental Committee conducts further investigations into the established contract and can eventually make a ruling, formally resolving the conflict. The Rental Committee is accessible to everyone, including courts, municipalities, residents' committees, and tenant organizations.
Engaging the Rental Committee
You might never need to deal with the Rental Committee, which is great, but, unfortunately, things aren't always so straightforward. Sometimes cooperation doesn't go as smoothly, and then you'll be glad that an independent body like the Rental Committee exists. But what specific matters should you engage them for?
As a tenant, you can initiate a procedure for nearly all money-related matters. This includes the all-inclusive price, the rent (for the first six months), rent increase, rent reduction, the monthly advance, service costs, and the final settlement. This can be done in combination with utilities, maintenance, and home improvement. As a landlord, you can also request a procedure with the Rental Committee. This can be for rent increase, home improvements & rent, maintenance & rent, and service costs & rent.
When Not to Engage the Rental Committee
You engage the Rental Committee for conflicts about the rental contract. However, there are certain matters where advice is sought from the Rental Committee, which is not their intended purpose. It's good to know when not to involve them.
For instance, the Rental Committee does not rule on the rent of business premises or liberalized housing (private sector). You also do not approach the Rental Committee for assistance in finding a rental property. Additionally, they cannot help with questions about neighbour disturbances, housing allowance, terminating a lease, or holiday homes.
Costs
Be aware that involving the Rental Committee may incur costs. If you initiate a procedure, you'll need to pay a deposit. If the ruling is in your favor, this deposit will be refunded. The other party would then cover this cost, commonly known as administrative fees.