Service costs are not rent. They are charges for agreed services connected with the home, such as certain utilities, cleaning, furnishings or common-area services. The landlord must be able to explain and account for them, and major new rules take effect on 1 January 2027.
Kale huur versus servicekosten
Kale huur is the basic rent for use of the dwelling. Servicekosten are separate charges for agreed services. Keep them separated when checking rent thresholds, deposit limits and affordability.
Monthly advance and annual settlement
Service costs are often paid as a monthly advance. The landlord must settle the actual eligible costs according to the applicable rules. If the figures are unclear or unreasonable, request the underlying calculation and evidence before accepting an unexplained increase.
Major change on 1 January 2027
The Wet modernisering servicekosten enters into force on 1 January 2027. For new contracts signed on or after that date, landlords may charge only the eight statutory categories of service costs and new calculation/allocation rules apply. Some Huurcommissie policy changes also affect older contracts.
Because this guide is being verified in September 2026, anyone signing a contract that begins around January 2027 should check the Huurcommissie’s current transition guidance rather than relying on an older template.
Rent increases are not service-cost increases
A landlord cannot hide a rent increase inside vague service-cost charges. Rent increases follow separate sector-specific rules. In 2026 the national maximum is 6.1% for mid-range and 4.4% for the free sector; ordinary social-rent increases are capped at 4.1% from 1 July 2026, with separate income-dependent possibilities.
Where to challenge costs
Start by asking the landlord for a proper breakdown. If the dispute is within the Huurcommissie’s remit, use Huurcommissie. If the issue also involves prohibited landlord behaviour, use the municipal reporting point. Court remains available where a judicial decision is required.