Rent Reduction After Exceeding WWS Maximum in Rotterdam: Your Step-by-Step Guide

In Rotterdam, where the rental market is under pressure due to the popularity of neighborhoods such as Kralingen, Delfshaven, and the Kop van Zuid, landlords often exceed the WWS maximum. If your Rotterdam landlord does this and you have already paid the excessively high rent, you can demand rent reduction. Pursuant to Article 7:232 of the Dutch Civil Code (BW), you can ask the district court in Rotterdam to reduce the rent to the statutory maximum. Start with a formal registered letter to the landlord, in which you specify the exceedance with reference to the Rotterdam housing stock and RVO figures. Demand repayment of the overpaid amount, including dates, exact amounts, and the WWS percentage for that year – in 2024 it was 3.4%, but always check the current lists on the website of the municipality of Rotterdam or RVO. If the landlord does not respond within 14 days, then involve the Rent Tribunal for binding advice (also for private sector properties in Rotterdam) or go directly to the district court at the Coolsingel. Local tips: consult Woonpunt Rotterdam for free advice or Huurteam Rotterdam for support with evidence. Keep all payment proofs, rental agreements, and correspondence digitally. Successful proceedings in Rotterdam often lead to repayment plus statutory interest. Note: you have two years after the rent increase to litigate. This way, you effectively protect your rights in the Rotterdam rental market against unlawful increases and restore your financial position, also with the help of local institutions such as the municipality's Housing Desk.