The Senate approved a legislative amendment on Tuesday that provides tenants and landlords with more clarity regarding service costs that tenants pay on top of the rent. The law includes a list of items and services that landlords may charge as service costs. This clarifies the calculation of service costs. For example, the use of a shared gym or swimming pool may not fall under service costs. The new rules will come into effect on January 1, 2026.

For service costs, landlords may charge reasonable costs that fit the services provided. Tenants can also more easily have the advance payment they make each month for service costs checked for accuracy due to the new rules. Furthermore, they can more easily initiate a case with the Rent Commission if they suspect that the service costs are too high.

The need for clarity regarding service costs is evident from the number of disputes at the Rent Commission. In 2023, over 3,800 cases were filed - a 60% increase compared to the previous year. In 2024, the increase continued, with over 4,100 new cases. The new rules are intended to help reduce disputes between tenants and landlords.

The legislative amendment also supports municipalities in enforcing the Good Landlord Act that has been in effect since July 2023. Thanks to the clear delineation of service costs, municipalities can act more targeted and effectively against abuse.