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Rent Threshold for Social Housing in Rotterdam

Discover the rent threshold for social housing in Rotterdam (2024: €752.33). Prevent crooked living, retain rent allowance and know your rights at the Rotterdam District Court.

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What is the rent threshold for social housing in Rotterdam?

The rent threshold for social housing in Rotterdam is the maximum amount you may pay for a rental property that falls under the Housing Allowance Act and the Maximum Rent Act. This threshold determines whether a property is considered a social rental property and whether you are entitled to rent allowance. In 2024, a national rent threshold applies, but Rotterdam applies specific rules for the region. Exceeding it can lead to loss of allowance or a crooked housing situation in the port city.

What is social housing in Rotterdam?

A social rental property meets the requirements of the Maximum Rent Act (Wmh). In Rotterdam, this act regulates that social rental properties may not be more expensive than the locally established rent threshold. Properties are often rented by housing associations such as HBC Woonborg or Woonbron, major players in the Rotterdam social rental market.

The threshold ensures affordable housing for Rotterdam residents with a modal income. Above this limit, crooked housing arises (see: Crooked Housing - What Is It?).

Legal basis

  • Maximum Rent Act (Wmh): Limits rent prices for the social sector in Rotterdam.
  • Housing Allowance Act: Income and rent price determine your entitlement to allowance.
  • Maximum Rent Decree (Bmh): Specific thresholds for Rotterdam and neighborhoods such as Feijenoord or Kralingen.

How is the rent threshold in Rotterdam determined?

Annually, the government sets the threshold, tailored to Rotterdam factors:

  • The local average rent in neighborhoods such as Delfshaven or Centrum.
  • The property type (studio, upstairs apartment or family home).
  • The location (busy West-Kruiskade vs. quiet IJsselmonde).

In 2024, the maximum rent threshold in Rotterdam is approximately €752.33 per month for a property of 70 m² (liberalization threshold). Check current figures with the Municipality of Rotterdam or Central Government.

Consequences if the rent in Rotterdam exceeds the threshold

Rent above the Rotterdam social rent threshold has direct impact:

1. Loss of rent allowance

Rent allowance applies only below the threshold. In Rotterdam, with high living costs, this particularly affects starters and families.

2. Crooked housing in the Maasstad

A crooked housing situation arises with rent that is too high in a social housing association property. Causes:

  • Landlord sets rent too high.
  • Rent increases due to inflation in Rotterdam.
  • Switch from social to private sector.

Demand rent correction or switch via Woonnet Rijnmond. More in: Crooked Housing - What Is It?

3. Less Rent Tribunal protection

Above the threshold, no Rent Tribunal supervision. Landlords may increase rents within the Good Landlordship Act, strictly enforced in Rotterdam.

Your rights and obligations as a Rotterdam tenant

Rights and obligations are set out in the Housing Allowance Act and Wmh.

Rights

  • Affordable rent: Not above the Rotterdam threshold, unless you agree.
  • Rent allowance: For income below €25,000-€35,000 (2024).
  • Rent price check: Have it assessed by Legal Counter Rotterdam, Westblaak 180.

Obligations

  • Report income to housing associations for prioritization.
  • Pay rent on time to prevent eviction.

Help in Rotterdam

  • Rotterdam District Court: Wilhelminaplein 100-125, for rent disputes.
  • Legal Counter: Westblaak 180, free advice.
  • Municipality of Rotterdam: Rent team for inspections.

Take action?

Suspect crooked housing or rent that is too high? Start a procedure with the Rent Tribunal or Rotterdam District Court. Contact the Legal Counter Rotterdam (Westblaak 180) for personal guidance.