Many landlords in Almere treat their tenants fairly. However, it happens that tenants face unfair practices or excessively high rent prices. The municipality of Almere believes it is important for residents to know their rights and where to turn if something goes wrong. Therefore, the municipality points tenants to the reporting point associated with the Good Landlordship Act and the Affordable Rent Act.

Councilor Alexander Sprong: “In this overheated housing market, tenants are more vulnerable to unreliable landlords. Therefore, we find it important to be easily accessible for them and to stand by their side against unfair rental practices or excessively high rents. That is why we have tightened our regulations, which also include the rules regarding affordable rent. This way, tenants and landlords in Almere know where they stand and how we, as a municipality, act against violations of the Good Landlordship Act.”

Reporting Point Available for Tenants

Since July 2023, there has been a municipal reporting point for complaints about landlords. Think of reports about intimidation, discrimination, unclear contracts, or excessive deposits. From July 1, 2024, tenants can also report through the same reporting point if they suspect they are paying too much rent, if the rent increase is too high, and if the landlord is not complying with legal regulations.

New Enforcement Rules Established

To better protect tenants and act against landlord misconduct, the municipality of Almere has adjusted the enforcement rules. These now also include the rules from the Affordable Rent Act. This means that the municipality can now impose fines for misconduct. The municipality acts step by step in cases of violations. Landlords usually receive a warning first. If that does not help, a corrective measure follows, such as an order under penalty. Only if the situation is still not resolved can a fine follow. These fines can amount to €15,000 per violation and are doubled in case of repeat offenses.

Information Campaign This Summer

This summer, the municipality will launch an information campaign to familiarize tenants and landlords in Almere with the rules and the reporting point. The campaign aims to increase awareness of rights and obligations when renting and letting. Extra attention will also be given to labor migrants, so that they can also find the right information. The webpage and the reporting form are available in Dutch and English, with references to information in multiple languages.

Want to Know More?

Go to: https://www.almere.nl/wonen/meldpunt-problemen-met-verhuurders