The rental market has been under pressure for some time due to a shortage of affordable housing and unreasonable practices by some landlords. The ‘Good Landlordship Act’, implemented on July 1, 2023, aims to address these issues by introducing stricter rules for landlords and more protection for tenants. This variant explores whether this legislation is effective in addressing unfair rental behavior and what the real benefits for tenants are.

New Rules for a Fair Rental Market

At the heart of the law is the promotion of fair practices in tenant selection, an attempt to reduce discrimination and ensure equal access to housing. Despite good intentions, it remains to be seen whether these measures can concretely reduce discrimination, given the subtle ways in which preferences can manifest.

Protection Against Intimidation

A key component of the law is the prohibition of landlord intimidation, intended to create a safer rental experience. However, its effectiveness relies on the willingness and ability of tenants to report intimidation, a process that can be emotionally taxing.

Deposit and Repayment

The rule that the deposit may only be twice the base rent provides a clear framework that can limit landlord abuse. This is a directly applicable benefit for tenants, though disputes over the property’s condition upon departure remain a complicating factor.

The Importance of Written Contracts

The requirement for written rental agreements aims to clarify the rights and obligations of both parties. While this can help in recording agreements, it changes little about the fundamental dynamics between tenant and landlord.

Mandatory Tenant Information

Mandating landlords to inform tenants about their rights and obligations is a positive step toward transparency. This can help reduce ignorance and misunderstandings, which often disadvantage the tenant.

Stricter Enforcement Options

The ability for local authorities to act against landlords who break the rules, including issuing fines, strengthens the law. However, the extent to which these powers will actually be used remains a question.

The ‘Good Landlordship Act’ certainly brings improvements for tenants in the Dutch rental market. Yet, there are doubts about the extent to which the law can truly eliminate unfair rental behavior. The provisions provide a foundation for fairer rental practices, but the challenges in the rental market require a broader approach and more in-depth solutions. For a significant shift in the power balance in favor of tenants, further measures and greater awareness may be necessary.