Liberalisation Threshold in Leiden: Social Housing or Free Sector?
In Leiden, the liberalisation threshold plays a crucial role in determining whether your property falls under social housing or the free sector. This affects your tenant rights, especially in the area of rent protection.
What is the Liberalisation Threshold?
The liberalisation threshold is a rent price threshold that determines:
- Below the threshold: Social housing with extensive rent protection
- Above the threshold: Free sector with minimal protection
For 2024, this threshold has been set at €879.66 per month (bare rent).
The Decisive Moment
The classification as social housing or free sector depends on the initial rent:
- The rent price at the start of the contract
- Later increases do not change the sector
- Once free sector, it remains free sector (for that contract)
Differences in Rights
| Category | Social Housing | Free Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Rent Protection | Yes (via points system) | No* |
| Initial Rent Check | Yes | No |
| Maximum Rent Increase | Statutorily determined | As per contract |
| Tenancy Protection | Yes | Yes |
| Housing Benefit Possible | Yes | No (rent too high) |
*With the Affordable Rent Act, protection is extended to mid-range rent.
Points System and Threshold
The liberalisation threshold corresponds to approximately 147 points in the property valuation system:
- Fewer than 147 points: Social housing (unless initial rent higher)
- 147 points or more: Possibly free sector
Impact for Tenants in Leiden
Social Housing
- Option for rent assessment by the Rent Tribunal
- Maximum rent based on points system
- Limited annual rent increase
- Chance of housing benefit
Free Sector
- No check on initial rent
- Landlord sets rent price
- Rent increase as per agreement
- No housing benefit possible
New Affordable Rent Act (2024)
Recent legislation brings changes:
- Points system extended to mid-range rent (up to approximately 186 points)
- More properties fall under rent protection
- Maximum rent for mid-segment introduced
Check: Social Housing or Free Sector?
- Check the initial rent in your tenancy agreement
- Was it below €879.66 (or the threshold for that year)?
- Yes: social housing with protection
- No: free sector with limited rights
Liberalisation Threshold per Year
| Year | Threshold Amount |
|---|---|
| 2024 | €879.66 |
| 2023 | €808.06 |
| 2022 | €763.47 |
| 2021 | €752.33 |
| 2020 | €737.14 |
Frequently Asked Questions in Leiden
My rent is now above the threshold due to increases. Am I now free sector?
No, the initial rent is decisive. If it was below the threshold, you remain a social housing tenant.
Can I switch from free sector to social housing?
This is only possible if the property has too few points for free sector. Have this checked.
My property has 140 points, but the rent is €950. What now?
Your property belongs in the social sector. Apply for rent reduction via the Rent Tribunal.
The liberalisation threshold is essential for your rights as a tenant in Leiden. Know where you stand and whether you qualify for rent protection.
Local Assistance in Leiden
For legal support, you can go to the Juridisch Loket Leiden, located at Stationsweg 46. In addition, the District Court of The Hague, Leiden location handles matters relating to tenancy disputes.