Rent Increase After Termination in Rotterdam: Rules and Protection

In Rotterdam, with its vibrant housing market and high demand for rental properties in neighbourhoods such as Kralingen, Delfshaven, and the Kop van Zuid, the rent price may not simply explode after termination and new letting. The Rent Act limits increases to the points system or the liberalisation threshold (€808.06 in 2024). In the free sector, where many Rotterdam apartments fall, you can negotiate a reasonable market price, but usury rent is strictly addressed. Tenants in Rotterdam have a two-month reflection period upon contract renewal. In the event of eviction for own use by the landlord, such as often for family reunification in the city, the same rent applies to the new tenant. Procedure: the landlord must demonstrate liberalisation with a WOZ value above €266,000, which in Rotterdam hotspots such as the Oude Westen quickly occurs due to rising real estate prices. Dispute? The Rent Tribunal decides within months, with possible recovery up to three years. Example: old rent €900 in Feijenoord, new €1200 – the tenant can claim moderation via the lower limit. Protection against usury rent in Rotterdam via fines up to €20,000, additionally enforced by the municipality. Indexation is annually maximum 4.2% in 2024. Document all correspondence, especially with Rotterdam housing associations such as Woonbron or Vestia. Local tip: check the Rotterdam Rent Team for free advice. These rules prevent abuse and ensure affordable succession in the city. Consult Vastgoedbelang or the Juridisch Loket Rotterdam for landlords. (248 words)