Bare rent vs. total rent in housing allowance calculation
When applying for **housing allowance** in Leiden, the **rent price** is decisive. The **bare rent price** (excluding service costs) and **total rent price** (including everything) often lead to discussion. The **Social Insurance Bank (SVB)** applies strict rules, based on your tenancy agreement. In Leiden, in case of problems, you can go to District Court The Hague, Leiden Location or Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46.
Difference between bare rent and total rent
Bare rent: The base rate for the accommodation itself, without utilities, service or administration costs. This is purely listed as 'rent' in your contract.
Total rent: Everything together, including mandatory service costs, gas, water, electricity and possibly internet if included in the contract. Also called **gross rent**.
For housing allowance, the SVB normally uses the **bare rent**, unless your contract bundles the additional costs with the rent.
Legal rules for housing allowance
Based on the Work and Assistance Act (Wwb) and SVB guidelines. Important points:
- **Bare rent** applies as standard for allowance.
- If service costs are bundled in the rent: **total rent** possible.
- Rent threshold 2023: € 741.66 (bare rent) for single-person household. Above this amount, allowance decreases or lapses.
Check SVB details: SVB housing allowance calculation.
Examples for Leiden tenants
Example 1: Only bare rent
Situation: Apartment in Leiden € 800/month, no extras in contract.
Bare: € 800 | Total: € 800
Allowance: Above € 741.66 threshold, so limited or nil. File objection with SVB or District Court The Hague, Leiden Location.
Example 2: With service costs
Situation: Bare rent € 700 + € 150 service costs (included in contract).
Bare: € 850 | Total: € 850
Allowance: Above threshold, but check if service counts. Seek advice from Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46.
What if your allowance is too low in Leiden?
1. Check your tenancy agreement for bare vs. total composition.
2. Log in to Mijn SVB for calculation details.
3. File objection within 6 weeks with SVB.
4. No success? Go to District Court The Hague, Leiden Location (Parnaslaan 100, 2334 LE Leiden).
Free first-line assistance: Juridisch Loket Leiden, Stationsweg 46, 2311 CH Leiden. Call 0900-8020 or visit in person.
Specific for Leiden: housing association rent and allowance
With Leiden housing associations such as De Sleutels or Haag Wonen (active in region), service costs are often listed separately. But always check: if they are 'included in the rent price', they count towards allowance.