High gas prices, more expensive groceries and the annual rent increase; for many tenants it has become increasingly difficult to make ends meet in recent months. Rent is often the largest cost item and according to housing association Ymere, 37 percent of its tenants have trouble paying the bill. The corporation is therefore arguing for an extra month’s rent allowance. The Woonbond likes such a ‘thirteenth month’ and has even more tips for people who can – almost – no longer pay the rent.
The Woonbond has argued for years for a structurally higher housing benefit. “It is a very efficient tool. In addition, the personal contribution – which is now 100 percent for our own account – should be reduced,” says Marcel Trip of the Woonbond.
I can’t pay the rent, now what?
In addition, he recommends talking to the landlord if you can no longer pay the rent: “You can always ask if something can be done about the amount of the rent. Corporations may be more inclined to accommodate you. than private investors, but you can always ask.”
It can also pay off to check the annual rent increase (which falls on the mat around this time of year): “That rent increase depends on many different things. website there is a check in which you can see whether the increase is correct. In addition, the landlord does not have to increase the rent.”
In addition, the association gives tips on how to use energy more economically, such as shorter and less hot showers and placing radiator foil behind the heating. “It is also good to look at the insulation of your house. What many people do not know is that they can force their landlord to install double glazing. You can do this via the right of initiative.”
However, enforcing double glazing can still be a lengthy procedure and lead to a rent increase. The housing association argues in favor of making this easier: “As far as we are concerned, single glass really belongs in the museum and we would like to see it classified as a defect.”