Rent Price Points System Rotterdam: how it works
The **rent price points system** sets the maximum rent price for social housing in Rotterdam. This system protects tenants against excessive rents and helps housing associations cover costs. Points are awarded based on living size, location in Rotterdam, energy facilities, and more. In this article, you will find a Rotterdam-specific explanation, your rights, and help options at the Rotterdam District Court (Wilhelminaplein 100-125) or Legal Counter Rotterdam (Westblaak 180).
What does the points system in Rotterdam entail?
The points system is a **statutory framework** from the Maximum Rent Act and the Rotterdam APV. Rent prices are calculated via points for characteristics such as:
- Size (rooms, m² in Rotterdam neighborhoods)
- Location (Rotterdam center, Delfshaven, Kralingen or surrounding municipalities)
- Year of construction (port newbuild vs. historic buildings)
- Facilities (central heating, HR++ glass, nearby tram stop)
- Housing type (apartment in Rotterdam-South, single-family home in IJsselmonde)
The total points lead to a max. rent price according to Rotterdam rates, so comparable homes in neighborhoods like Charlois or Feijenoord have the same range.
Legal basis in Rotterdam
Laid down in:
- Maximum Rent Act (Wmh): Maximum rent for housing association properties.
- Rotterdam APV: Local points table and rent per point (consult Municipality of Rotterdam website).
Example points system Rotterdam
Take a **3-room apartment** in **Rotterdam Center** with central heating and elevator:
| Characteristic | Points | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Size (3 rooms) | 42 | Standard Rotterdam apartment |
| Location (Center) | 35 | Near Erasmus Bridge and markets |
| Central heating installation | 12 | Energy efficient |
| Elevator present | 18 | Essential in Rotterdam high-rise |
| Total | 107 | — |
At Rotterdam rate of approx. €11.80 per point: 107 × €11.80 = €1,262.60 p/m (excl. service charges). Check current rates with your housing association.
Your rights and obligations in Rotterdam
Rotterdam tenants have strong protection.
Rights as tenant
- Transparent calculation: Housing association must show points score. Request the rent review report.
- Rent freeze in case of excess: If rent is too high, you can go to Rotterdam District Court, Wilhelminaplein 100-125 for reduction.
- Free advice: Start at Legal Counter Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 for review.
Obligations
- Separate service charges from bare rent.
- Upon moving: check new points.
What if your Rotterdam rent is too high?
1. Request points score from housing association.
2. Check via Huurpunt Rotterdam or Woonbond tool.
3. File complaint with housing association.
4. Proceed to Rent Tribunal or Rotterdam District Court.
5. Need help? Call Legal Counter Rotterdam, Westblaak 180 (010-2010800) for free consultation hours.
Rotterdam-specific tips
In neighborhoods like Rotterdam-South, stricter controls apply by the municipality. New housing association homes score higher on energy points. Take into account annual rent adjustment (max. 3-5%).