Huisvestingsvergunning Rotterdam: criteria uitgelegd
A housing permit in Rotterdam is mandatory for social rental housing and independent housing below the liberalisation threshold. The city is facing enormous housing shortages, resulting in strict criteria. Priority goes to urgency, low income and Rotterdam residents with local ties. This article explains the Rotterdam rules, with reference to Rechtbank Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) and Juridisch Loket Rotterdam (Westblaak 180).
What is a housing permit in Rotterdam?
In Rotterdam, the Housing Authority Rotterdam manages allocation via the platform WonenZR. You must be registered with the municipality and meet income and urgency criteria. The permit applies to social rent (up to €879.66 rent in 2024) and is linked to your registration period.
Legal basis Rotterdam
Rotterdam follows the Housing Act (art. 1.1-1.2) and the local Regulation on allocation to urgent housing seekers Rotterdam 2024. Additional rules via the Rotterdam Housing Permit Policy. In case of objection: Rechtbank Rotterdam, Wilhelminaplein 100-125.
- Liberalisation threshold 2024: €300,000 purchase price or €879.66 gross rent.
- Registration period: Minimum 2 years with WonenZR for regular allocation.
- Urgency declaration: Via Housing Department, valid for max. 2 years.
Main criteria in Rotterdam
1. Income test
Your test income 2023 (taxable income + notional return on assets) may not exceed:
- Single: €25,825 (2024)
- With tax partner: €34,900
- With children: €39,245
Income is checked via SVB and Tax Authorities. Assets above €57,000 are included.
2. Urgency criteria Rotterdam
Apply for urgency at Housing Department Rotterdam. Categories:
| Category | Points | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Cat. 1: Very urgent | 1,000+ pt | Medically uninhabitable, domestic violence, homelessness |
| Cat. 2: Urgent | 500-999 pt | Serious nuisance, medical necessity, pregnancy |
| Cat. 3: Urgent | 250-499 pt | Housing too small, divorce, labour migration |
3. Local ties
Extra priority for:
- Rotterdam residents with 5+ years address history
- Status holders (24 months urgency)
- Youth up to 23 years (40% reserve pool)
How to increase your chances in Rotterdam?
- Register with WonenZR (free, €38.50 service fee p.a.)
- Submit urgency application with medical/social evidence
- Respond to Comfortwonen (first 2 weeks only urgency/registrants)
- Consider room rental or temporary contracts
Objection and appeal
Refusal? File objection with Housing Department within 6 weeks. Then to Rechtbank Rotterdam (Wilhelminaplein 100-125). Free advice: Juridisch Loket Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 (Mon-Sat 9:00-17:00).
Last updated: 2024. Always check the current municipal rules.